Press Release: Wetmore Wildfire Forces Evacuations

Wetmore Wildfire Forces Evacuations

Florence, CO, Tuesday, October 23, 2012 – A wildfire erupted Tuesday near the town of Wetmore, Colorado which is approximately 20 miles west of Pueblo, Colorado. The fire quickly spread to the northeast driven by 40 to 50 mph winds. Evacuations were ordered for the town of Wetmore and for homes in western Pueblo County. As of 8:00 p.m. MDT the fire had consumed 600-700 acres with at least 12 structures destroyed.

Red Cross volunteers from Pueblo and Fremont Counties were activated around 2:00 p.m. and an evacuation shelter was opened at the First Southern Baptist Church located in Florence at 303 E. 3rd St. Approximately 30 individuals have registered at the Florence shelter. Red Cross is prepared to support evacuees through the night with cots, blankets, food and other support services. A second shelter was opened at the First Church of Nazarene to support those evacuating east toward Pueblo. That shelter is located at 84 Sanford St. in Pueblo.

The community of Florence and others in Fremont County continue to offer additional support for those that have been evacuated. Those with large animals have been asked to take them to the Colorado State Fairgrounds in Pueblo, or to the Pathfinder Rodeo Arena on Highway 115 between Florence and Canon City.