NewsWildfire

Actions

Evacuations lifted in Jefferson County after brush fire erupts near C-470 and Kipling

wildfire near ken caryl.jpg
Posted at 3:15 PM, Dec 27, 2021
and last updated 2021-12-28 07:41:26-05

JEFFERSON COUNTY, Colo. — A wildfire which has been named the Oak Fire by West Metro Fire Rescue officials, broke out near C-470 and Kipling shortly after 2:30 p.m.

We're updating information on this latest December blaze in the Denver metro area below.


Tuesday

4:40 a.m. | As the sun comes up and temperatures rise, residents near the Oak Fire may see more smoke and hotspots as crews continue to work.

Monday

6:04 p.m. | Westbound C-470 is now back open. Eastbound C-470 remains closed at this time.

4:52 p.m. | C-470 is still closed in both directions between Ken Caryl and South Kipling to allow for emergency vehicles, Jefferson County Sheriff's Office deputies say.

4:42 p.m. | All evacuation orders are rescinded for Ken Caryl Valley at this time, Jefferson County officials say, as they have "substantial personnel fighting the fire on the ground and in the air." They advise the public to continue monitoring the situation in case things rapidly change.

4:15 p.m. | The Oak Fire burning in Jefferson County has been estimated to be about 150 acres in size, according to fire officials. No structures have burned.

3:53 p.m. | The state of Colorado is sending a single-engine air tanker (SEAT) from Ft. Collins to fight this blaze, according to West Metro Fire Rescue officials. Fire continues to push north and west. Evacuation has been lifted for Westerly Apartments.

3:46 p.m. | Evacuation orders have been issued for residents of Ken Caryl Valley by Jefferson County officials. The evacuation site is Chatfield High School.

3:40 p.m. | C-470 is now closed at Bowles. Crews are making progress but continue to battle winds in the area, Jefferson County officials say.

3:38 p.m. | The Oak Fire has slowed somewhat but it is still being driven by strong winds, West Metro Fire Rescue officials say. There are no air resources available in the region. Neighboring fire districts are assisting on the ground. Two buildings at the Westerly Apts have been evacuated. Firefighters have so far kept the fire from jumping C-470, fire officials say.

3:16 p.m. | A pre-evacuation notification has been issued for Ken Caryl Valley, Jeffco. officials say, adding, "Reminder: if it takes longer to evacuate due to medical or other reasons, residents do not need to wait to be told to evacuate. Residents can self-evacuate if they feel they should."

3:12 p.m. | Hildebrand Ranch Park closed due to wildfire operations, Jefferson County Sheriff's Office deputies said as they advised the public to please avoid the area.

2:57 p.m. | A wildfire has been reported on Hogback near C-470. C-470 is closed from Ken Caryl to Kipling. The Westerly Apartments are currently being evacuated, per Jefferson County Sheriff's Office deputies. Evacuation center is Chatfield High School.

2:32 p.m. | A wildland fire is burning in Jefferson County near C470 and Kiplin, according to South Metro Fire Rescue officials. A smoke plume is widely visible.