Colorado: Governor Polis Extends Aspen Acres Fire, Gold Mountain Fire Disaster Declarations

DENVER ~ Denver, CO - As wildfires continue to ravage parts of Colorado, Governor Polis has issued an Executive Order extending disaster declarations for the Aspen Acres Fire in Pueblo and Custer counties and the Gold Mountain Fire in Ouray County. The order also extends the State of Colorado Emergency Operations Plan and authorizes the Office of Emergency Management to take necessary actions to assist with recovery efforts.

The decision comes as the region braces for increased rainfall and potential flooding, which could further exacerbate the already dire situation. The Executive Order also allows for the deployment of unarmed Colorado National Guard members to support response and recovery efforts, as well as suspending certain statutes related to out-of-state emergency medical service providers practicing in Colorado if needed.

Efforts are also underway to request a Major Disaster Declaration from President Biden for these fires. In Las Animas County, Lt. Governor Primavera declared a disaster on August 13 for four separate fires - Post Fire, Sheep Pen Fire, High Fence Fire, and Gotera Fire. While the Post Fire has burned over 4,300 acres and is currently 90% contained, the other three fires have been fully contained and turned back over to local jurisdictions.

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In Ouray County, the Gold Mountain Fire has burned over 39,700 acres and is currently 87% contained. The Division of Fire Prevention and Control (DFPC) is responsible for fire suppression efforts. Governor Polis previously declared a disaster on June 28 and memorialized it on July 24. On July 1, he announced that the fire was authorized for a Federal Management Assistance Grant which would cover up to 75% of firefighting costs.

Similarly, in Pueblo and Custer Counties, the Aspen Acres Fire has burned over 102,000 acres and is currently 74% contained. DFPC is also responsible for fire suppression efforts here. Governor Polis previously declared a disaster on June 29 and memorialized it on July 24. On June 30, he announced that the fire was authorized for a Federal Management Assistance Grant.

As the fires continue to burn, Colorado is also facing post-fire flooding. The lack of vegetation and inability for the ground to absorb water in burn scars can lead to flash floods and debris flows. The most significant flooding has been reported in Ouray County from the Gold Mountain Fire burn scar and in Pueblo and Custer Counties from the Aspen Acres Fire burn scar.

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The State is working closely with local governments to clear impacted roads and ensure safe passage for residents. Daily flood bulletins are being issued with specific forecasts for affected areas, and real-time alerts can be found on the National Weather Service website. Coloradans are also encouraged to use the Disaster Recovery Navigation tool for information on emergency alerts, flood insurance, and post-disaster guidance.

As Colorado continues to battle these devastating wildfires and prepare for potential flooding, Governor Polis urges residents to stay informed and take necessary precautions to ensure their safety.

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