Hundreds evacuated as Colorado, New Mexico fires grow
The Colorado High Park Fire viewed east of Fort Collins at sunset.
A massive wildfire in the Colorado foothills burned nearly 120 structures and sent smoke as far as neighboring Nebraska and Texas on Monday as crews in New Mexico also ramped up efforts against a large out-of-control blaze.
The northern Colorado fire has spread across nearly 60 square miles and blackened subdivision properties about 15 miles west of Fort Collins. It was first reported Saturday and by Monday, officials estimated 118 structures -- up from 18 the previous day -- had been damaged or destroyed.
In New Mexico, fire managers hoped to use a break in the weather to fight a 54-square-mile blaze near Ruidoso from the air. Winds grounded aircraft there Sunday. Residents in Ruidoso were told to prepare to evacuate if conditions worsen....