Colorado authorities have reinstated mandatory evacuations in Custer County after the Aspen Acres Wildfire rapidly intensified, burning across Pueblo and Custer counties. As of Monday afternoon, the fire has scorched about 101,546 acres, currently the largest active wildfire in the state. A rapid, wind-driven run toward Millset Ridge near the community of Rye overwhelmed earlier control lines, with extreme heat and dry fuels causing spot fires and threatening containment. The Custer County Sheriff’s Office issued Level 3 “GO NOW!” orders, while Governor Jared Polis’ disaster emergency declaration has activated the Colorado National Guard to support more than 4,000 firefighters and 72 aircraft statewide.

Prepared by Olivia Bennett and reviewed by editorial team.