Local News

I-76 northeast of Denver reopens after closure in both directions due to wildfire

Updated on: September 12, 2024 / 6:43 PM MDT / CBS Colorado

Wildfire burns nearly 1,000 acres on Colorado's Eastern Plains

Both directions of I-76 reopened after a closure northeast of Denver on Thursday afternoon because of a wildfire. The interstate was closed between Roggen (9 miles east of Keenesburg) and CO 52; CO 39 (14 miles west of Fort Morgan) from Mile Point 48 to Mile Point 66.

All lanes reopened after 4 p.m.

The fire burned more than 900 acres. Several fire crews responded including air support.

On the Colorado Department of Transportation camera, smoke from the wildfire was seen crossing the interstate.

A camera from the Colorado Department of Transportation that shows the smoke from a wildfire that closed I-76 in both directions near Wiggins. CDOT

CBS News Colorado First Alert Meteorologists have declared Thursday a First Alert Weather Day for high fire danger from the Denver metro area out over Colorado's Eastern Plains and for portions of the mountains and Colorado's Western Slope.

CBS

The Red Flag Warning is in effect from noon until 8 p.m. Thursday. The wind was gusting 15 to 35 mph in the Wiggins area at the time of the fire.

What caused the fire is being investigated. Fire officials said it may have been a re-ignite from a lightning strike on Wednesday.

Jennifer McRae

Jennifer McRae is a digital media producer for CBS Colorado with more than 25 years of experience in news. Jennifer is part of the digital team recognized for excellence for Best Website several times by the Colorado Broadcasters Association.

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