DENVER — The 128-acre Pearl Fire burning north of Red Feather Lakes in Larimer County is holding at 5% containment despite gusty winds Wednesday.
The human-caused fire was first reported Monday morning in the Crystal Lakes area, prompting authorities to immediately issue evacuation orders in and around the Red Feather Lakes subdivision.
Below is a list of evacuation zones still in place as of Wednesday at 1 p.m.:
Mandatory
- Crystal Lakes, south of Black Mountain and north of Lake Erie
- The area of County Road 86 and County Road 170
Voluntary
- Lake Erie and Mitchell Ditch area
- Crystal Lakes, north of Black Mountain to the state line
The U.S. Forest Service said 320 personnel were assigned to the fire Wednesday and focused on the north, east and west sides of the perimeter.
“Mother Nature has presented us with obstacles during this fire, from persistent high winds to difficult terrain,” said Larimer County Sheriff John Feyen in a statement. “Our wildland firefighters have been working incredibly hard to make progress. It’s physically demanding work, and they continue to rise to every challenge.”
In an update Wednesday evening, the Larimer County Sheriff's Office said one structure at the fire's origin point was damaged, but no other property damage has been identified at this time.
9/18/24 Incident Commander Trainee Ty gives update on #pearlfire. Though multiple aircraft are available, they are currently unable to fly due to unsafe conditions and high winds. pic.twitter.com/hNfjdyA4nR
— Forest Service, ARP (@usfsarp) September 18, 2024
The Larimer County Sheriff's Office determined that the fire originated on private property and was caused by humans. The sheriff’s office said they have identified the person who started the Pearl Fire and are working to verify the circumstances that led to the blaze.
The sheriff’s office will continue to operate the Joint Information Center and provide information about evacuation notices, animal evacuations and road closures. For evacuation information visit https://www.nocoalert.org/ or text LCEVAC to 888777. The Joint Information Center can be reached at 970-980-2500.
Evacuation Center
An overnight evacuation center was set up at Livermore Community Church, located at 284 W CR74E. Pets are allowed at the church. Those who need to access the shelter after 7 p.m. should call the Red Cross at 1-800-RED-CROSS.
Residents can also bring their small animals to NOCO Humane for sheltering. Call them at 970-226-3647 for more details.
A large animal evacuation center that was established at The Ranch was closed due to a lack of need, according to the sheriff's office.
Wildfires are now a year-round threat in Colorado. Denver7 is committed to covering their impact and the people working to find solutions to the threat.