Wildfire Shuts Down Interstate 70 in Western Colorado

A wildfire broke out near Interstate 70 in western Colorado on Tuesday afternoon. The blaze, named the Paradise Creek Fire, forced authorities to shut down the motorway in both directions as crews rushed to control the flames. The fire began around 3 p.m. and quickly spread to between 8 and 10 acres by 5 p.m. Nearly 50 firefighters were deployed to the scene by early evening, working to contain its growth.

Two helicopters joined the effort, conducting water drops to slow the fire’s advance. The closure of Interstate 70 disrupted travel, with no immediate estimate for when the road would reopen.

The Paradise Creek Fire remains active, with crews continuing suppression efforts. The interstate closure will stay in place until conditions are deemed safe for motorists.