Kruger Rock Fire Update: Pilot killed, Cause of fire announced

On November 16, 2021, at approximately 6:37 p.m., the Larimer County Sheriff's Office received reports of a single engine air tanker crash south of Estes Park. Resources were immediately deployed to search the area. At approximately 9:49 p.m., the plane crash site was located near the south end of Hermit Park. Larimer County is reporting that the pilot and only occupant of the aircraft did not survive. The investigation into the crash will be led by the FAA and NTSB.

On November 16, 2021, at about 6:50 a.m., a small wildfire was reported near Little Valley Road and Fish Creek Road southeast of Estes Park. Multiple resources responded and found the fire burning in very steep terrain. Gusting winds and low relative humidity caused the fire to spread quickly and threatened several structures in the area. Multiple voluntary and mandatory evacuations were ordered during the day and notifications were sent to 1,644 contacts (not individuals or homes). No structure damage has been reported.

Despite the gusting winds, air resources were utilized to make water and suppressant drops. More air resources have been ordered for today along with additional fire crews.

As of 6:20 p.m. last night, the fire was estimated at 133 acres with 15% containment.

An investigation into the cause of the fire has revealed high winds blew a tree onto a nearby powerline causing it to arc and start the fire.

You can follow updates here: https://www.larimer.org/kruger-rock-fire

Additional information:

* The Canyon Lakes Ranger District announced this morning that the U.S. Forest Service & Larimer County will assume unified command of the Kruger Rock Fire.

* The Canyon Lakes Ranger District also announced that the Roosevelt National Forest has closed lands south and east of Estes Park. See closure map here: https://www.fs.usda.gov/Internet/FSE_DOCUMENTS/fseprd972833.pdf

* Last night, Rocky Mountain National Park made this announcement: "In an abundance of caution, due to the Kruger Rock Fire, RMNP, in conjunction with the USFS, is closing the Twin Sisters area. This closure includes the Twin Sisters Trail and parking area. The Lily Lake area remains open."



Jeff
RockyMountainHikingTrails.com
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Wildfire Near Estes Park

Just when you thought the wildfire season was over, a fire is now burning near Estes Park. Known as the Kruger Rock Fire, the wildfire is located southeast of Estes Park, and directly east of Twin Sisters Peak. As of now, Route 36 cuts across the fire zone diagonally. As of 1:20 local time, the fire is approximately 100 acres in size with zero containment. Also as of right now, there are evacuations and road closures.

Unfortunately, the region is also experiencing high winds today. The Weather Service posted this for Estes Park: "west wind around 28 mph, with gusts as high as 44 mph." For updates on weather forecasts, please click here.

You can follow updates here: https://www.larimer.org/kruger-rock-fire

Update - there are reports that a fixed-wing aircraft has crashed while fighting the fire this evening.



Jeff
RockyMountainHikingTrails.com
HikinginGlacier.com
TetonHikingTrails.com

Ramble On: A History of Hiking
Exploring Glacier National Park
Exploring Grand Teton National Park