Hayden Pass Fire now more than 5,100 acres

By Rachel Warren

FREMONT COUNTY – A wildfire burning near Hayden Creek in Coaldale caused by a lightning strike grew to nearly eight square miles in five hours Sunday. The fire was caused by a lightning strike Friday, according to the Forest Service, and grew exponentially to about 5,104 acres Sunday afternoon.

About 20 homes in the area are under pre-evacuation notices, according to Bureau of Land Management spokesperson Kyle Sullivan. U.S. Forest Service required an evacuation of Hayden Creek Campground, also known as Cutty’s, on Fremont County Road 6.

The fire is zero percent contained. Visibility for drivers on Highway 50 between Coaldale and Canon City is limited because of heavy smoke. Use caution if traveling through the area.

Smoke and haze from the fire has reached several counties in southern Colorado.

U.S. Forest Service Fire Crews and Western Fremont County Fire Crews are on scene. Fremont County Sheriff’s Office asks that people in the area do NOT call 911 to report the fire.

See more at KOAA.com.