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Gusty Winds Fuel Alkali Fire Burning In Eagle County

(CBS4) - A new wildfire in northern Eagle County has forced authorities to close Highway 131. The wildfire, called the "Alkali Fire" is burning near 4 Eagle Ranch north of Wolcott. The fire has also been called the "4 Eagle Fire" by Rocky Mountain Area Coordination Center or RMACC.

alkali creek fire wolcott eagle county crediteagle river fire protection district
(credit: Eagle River Fire Protection District)

The fire had burned 100 acres by 3:45 p.m. Friday and was zero percent contained.

Smoke may be seen from the Beard Creek/Singletree area. One helicopter is on scene and two single-engine air tankers along with a large air tanker are assisting ground crews.

CO 131 is closed both northbound and southbound between US 6 and Colorado River Road due to wildfire activity. There is no estimated time to reopen.

The Horse Mountain subdivision has been placed on pre-evacuation status. Gusty winds are creating erratic fire behavior.

A photo of the fire shared by Colorado State Patrol showed heavy smoke coming from a ridge.

4
(source: CBS)

High temperatures on Friday and Saturday will contribute to high fire danger across most mountain areas in Colorado. A Red Flag Warning has been posted through 8 p.m. Friday because of the combination of record heat, gusty winds, low relative humidity and very dry soil.

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