What is the name and location of the wildfire?

As of August 2, 2024, the Alexander Mountain Fire is burning in northern Colorado, approximately 20 miles west of Loveland, in the Arapaho and Roosevelt National Forests (1)(2). The fire is north of Highway 34, near Sylvan Dale Ranch and the mouth of Big Thompson Canyon.

It has exploded to 9,194 acres since initially being sparked around 11 am, July 29 (3).

Which cities or areas are affected by the wildfire?

The Alexander Mountain Fire is burning close to Colorado’s largest population centers and is already having an impact on health and safety in the area

The cities and areas affected by the wildfire include:

• Boulder
• Drake
• Fort Collins
• Loveland
• Pinewood Reservoir
• Regions along Highway 34

Smoke could impact nearby cities in coming days, including Greeley and Denver.

What is the current containment status of the wildfire?

The Alexander Mountain Fire is at 5% containment as of August 2. The fire has burned 5,080 acres, and containment efforts are ongoing with multiple air and ground resources deployed.

There is high heat and low humidity in the area, which could help feed the fire.

Are there any evacuation orders or alerts in place?

There are mandatory and voluntary evacuation orders in place.

Mandatory evacuations are in effect for areas north and south of Highway 34 through Big Thompson Canyon, including Drake to the Dam Store and Pinewood Reservoir.

Voluntary evacuations cover Waltonia Road, Eden Valley to Sunrise Ranch, and Sylvan Dale to Ellis Ranch. Evacuation centers are set up at Foundations Church in Loveland and Estes Park Events Complex. Large animals can be evacuated to The Ranch in Loveland.

An air quality alert is in effect for Larimer County from 9 a.m. Tuesday to 9 a.m Wednesday.

How can I protect myself from wildfire smoke?

Always plan ahead to protect yourself from wildfire smoke.

• Get a free air quality app for real-time air quality alerts and forecasts.
• Shut doors and windows and set the HVAC to recirculate mode.
• Run a high-performance air purifier to filter wildfire smoke.
• Contribute to your community’s outdoor air quality data.
• Stay indoors; if you do need to go outdoors, wear a KN95/FFP2 mask.