A fire in a remote residential area of central Colorado has resulted in the complete destruction of the originating house and continues to escalate, prompting the evacuation of around 700 nearby residences, as reported by local authorities.
 
On Tuesday morning, some rainfall provided minor relief by reducing the intensity of the flames, according to Teller County Sheriff Jason Marksell. However, fire crews were on high alert due to forecasted strong winds anticipated later in the afternoon. Since its outbreak on Monday, the fire has rapidly consumed just below 100 acres (40 hectares) of land.
 
Firefighting teams are working diligently to protect homes, while other crews are busy setting up fire lines in preparation for containment. In the Highland Lakes Subdivision—located northwest of Divide and Colorado Springs—two single-engine air tankers commenced water drops on Tuesday to assist in combating the blaze. The properties in this area are situated on lots of approximately 1.25 acres (0.5 hectares), according to the Highland Lakes Property Owners Association.
 
In addition to the air tankers, helicopters equipped for firefighting purposes have also been deployed, the sheriff noted.
 
Sheriff Marksell emphasized the urgency of the situation, stating, “We’re doing everything possible to get this fire knocked down quickly and under control,” citing concerns over potential shifts in the weather that could exacerbate the fire’s spread.
 
As the situation develops, law enforcement is actively investigating the origin of the blaze. Marksell mentioned, “We are treating this as a criminal act,” though he withheld additional details, indicating that any identified suspect could face significant felony charges for arson.
 
The sheriff also revealed that the total value of the homes currently under evacuation orders is estimated at approximately $300 million, highlighting the severity of the threat posed by the ongoing fire.