Twin Lakes wildfire southwest of Leadville prompts evacuations

Updated at 1:38 p.m. on Wednesday June 12, 2024

A wildfire that started Tuesday afternoon is burning near Interlaken's historic district near Twin Lakes, a popular hiking and camping destination, officials said.

The wildfire covers about 413 acres — or a little more than half a square mile — according to data from the U.S. Bureau of Land Management. Authorities ordered the evacuation of people living in the historic district, which is home to a now-abandoned hotel complex, and residents along County Road 25 on the south side of Twin Lakes. Firefighters warned residents of Lost Canyon to be prepared to evacuate if the wildfire worsens.

Those who need to evacuate are being directed to the 6th Street Gym in Leadville, about 12 miles northeast of the fire.

The cause of the fire is unknown. Firefighters from the U.S. Forest Service, Lake County, Vail City and other municipalities responded to help contain the blaze.

In a statement posted on Facebook, the Lake County Sheriff's Office said the station's historic site was not threatened by the fire, “thanks to the on-site firefighters who provided community protection efforts.” structure “.

Smoke from the wildfire is expected to impact air quality from Leadville to Salida, according to the Colorado Department of Public Health and Environment. People living in the affected area are encouraged to stay indoors, especially if they have heart or respiratory illnesses or are very young or very old.

This is a developing story and may be updated.