A fast-moving brush fire along Interstate 25 north of Colorado Springs shut down southbound lanes near the Baptist Road exit on Monday before firefighters knocked it down at about 4.1 acres. Crews chased hot spots along the west side of the highway and had southbound lanes back open shortly after 2 p.m.
What Officials Said
Monument Fire District Chief Andy Kovacs said the cause of the blaze remains under investigation, according to The Denver Gazette. He told the outlet the fire burned about 4.1 acres on the west side of I-25 and that Monument called in mutual aid from neighboring departments.
Crews from Monument, Colorado Springs, the Air Force Academy, Larkspur, Palmer Lake and El Paso County joined forces to stop the flames, The Denver Gazette reported.
Weather And Fire Risk
The National Weather Service had fire-weather products and air-quality advisories in place for the region over the weekend, including watches that flagged gusty winds and smoke that can complicate firefighting efforts, according to the National Weather Service Pueblo forecast.
Those conditions are the kind that let a small roadside spark turn into a fast-growing fire if it lands in dry grass or brush.
Traffic And Response
A photographer for The Denver Gazette saw crews working hot spots and noted that southbound I-25 reopened shortly after 2 p.m. The outlet reported that traffic briefly backed up around the Baptist Road interchange while firefighters were on scene.
Northbound drivers also dealt with detours as crews continued mop-up. Officials urged motorists to avoid the area until firefighters were confident the fire line was secure.
What Neighbors Should Know
Residents in the Tri-Lakes and north Colorado Springs area can track current fire danger levels, burn restrictions and local alerts on the Monument Fire District website. Smoke or visible flames should be reported to 911. For nonemergencies and general guidance, visit the Monument Fire District online or call 719-484-0911.
