Snow dampens fire activity on the Fern Lake Fire
Estes Park, CO - The Fern Lake Fire remained active yesterday until the predicted cold weather front arrived the late afternoon. Fire managers were able to use the light helicopter for a reconnaissance flight of the fire perimeter in the morning. The flight showed the fire was still active on the west perimeter with a few continued hot spots at the confluence of the Big Thompson River and Spruce Creek. Limited smoke was seen in the Forest Canyon area.
The weather moved in mid-afternoon spreading 2 to 4 inches of snow on the fire overnight. The fire is still smoldering and creeping in areas protected from the weather, such as under tree canopiesand near large rocks. The forecast for the area is for an additional 1 to 2 inches of snow tonight, followed by a dry, windy period over the weekend. Warmer and drier conditions are expected by mid-week.
Due to the recent snowfall,slick conditions and safety concerns, firefighters will spend today reconditioning tools, training and preparing for next week potential fire activity. Firefighters will resume monitoring and mop-up operations as conditions allow.
The Moraine Park Campground is open. A reduced area closure is still in effect. This closure will be in effect for the duration of the Fern Lake Fire. Please obey all closure notices. Violating the terms of these fire restrictions is subject to criminal prosecution. Cub Lake Trail, Fern Lake Trail, and Fern Lake access road (beyond the winter parking) are closed. All access to the Ute Trail is closed, including from Upper Beaver Meadows. Lower Odessa Gorge (north of Odessa Lake) is closed to all use. You will not be able to hike north of Odessa Lake. Other trails leading into the fire area are closed and are posted.
The cause of the fire is still under investigation. Additional information about this fire can be found at www.inciweb.org, or by calling (970) 586-1381.
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Source: U.S. Department of the Interior, National Park Service
