Nearly 200 properties are in mandatory evacuation after a now 15,750-acre wildfire sparked near Westcliffe early Monday morning.
Six structures have been lost in the Junkins Fire, including one home. According to the Junkins Fire Facebook page, 80 firefighters are responding.
As of 9:30 p.m., fire officials say the fire had 0 percent containment. Information on evacuations can be found here: http://bit.ly/2dKhNXK
Wind gusts in the area are estimated at 70 miles per hour, making it even more difficult to fight the blaze. Firefighters have shifted their focus to protect homes.
The Junkins Fire has also crossed the Pueblo County border.
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Beulah School is closed due to excessive smoke in the area.
Health officials warn people in the area with respiratory problems to stay indoors due to heavy smoke.
Firefighters say the blaze is in deep forest, meaning it could burn for some time. Winds could push the blaze closer to town.
