Atlanta 6/28/2012 1:12:08 AM
News / Nature

Colorado’s Waldo Canyon Wildfire Doubles In Size As Thousands Flee

A massive wildfire ranging near Colorado Springs, Colorado doubled in size overnight. Colorado Springs Fire Chief Richard Brown called the blaze a “firestorm of epic proportions.” The Waldo Canyon fire has already scorched 24 square miles and forced about 32,000 people to leave their homes. It is unclear how many homes have been destroyed by the fire.

As of Wednesday the fire is only 5% contained. Thunderstorms are expected to bring winds that will likely feed the blaze. "We expect further trouble from the weather today," incident commander Rich Harvey told reporters. "We do expect all of our lines to be challenged today."

"There's no question, it's serious. It's as serious as it gets,” Gov. John Hickenlooper said Tuesday night after viewing the fire from the air.

No injuries or deaths have been reported in the Waldo Canyon fire.

Twelve other wildfires are burning in Colorado. Authorities say the largest blaze, the 136-square-mile High Park fire, is about 55% contained.

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