Middle Fork Fire Seen From Steamboat Springs Grows to Nearly 12,000 Acres

The Middle Fork Fire burning in Colorado’s Mount Zirkel Wilderness Area grew to 11,992 acres on October 8, a 1,938-acre growth from the day before. Smoke billowing from the fire could be seen from downtown Steamboat Springs, Colorado, on Thursday.

According to reports from the Steamboat Pilot, fire officials said the fire “may never be 100 percent contained” and was at 0 percent containment as of Thursday afternoon. The location and topography have made it difficult for firefighters to combat the blaze.

Air quality warnings were issued across Routt County, the report said, as smoke filled the valley. Officials told Steamboat Pilot reporters the fire may burn until the snow flies across the region. Credit: John Roesink via Storyful