Wildfire — Larimer & Boulder Counties Between 6000 & 9000 Feet, Colorado

2020-10-01 to 2020-10-31 · Larimer & Boulder Counties Between 6000 & 9000 Feet, Colorado

Event narrative

Strong winds, dry conditions and warm temperatures through most of October, preceding a period of heavy snow from October 23-25th, caused the Cameron Peak wildfire to double in size. The growth of the fire was minimized significantly after the snow storm, although it continued to burn through November. Initial damage estimate of $91.8 million is based off the average price of $400,000 per residence in Larimer County, and $10,000 per outbuilding. The cost to fight the wildfire was estimated at $134 million.

Wider weather episode

In the month of October, the Cameron Peak wildfire more than doubled its size. The first half of October could be characterized as unseasonably warm, dry and windy. These conditions allowed the fire to explode from 102,075 acres on the 1st, to 208,663 acres by the 31st. Gusty westerly winds associated the passing weather disturbances exacerbated the growth of the fire, and made it the largest wildfire to date in Colorado history. A total of 444 buildings were destroyed, including: 224 residences, 220 outbuildings, and 17 buildings associated with Shambala Mountain Center. It resulted in extensive voluntary and mandatory evacuations and numerous road closures. The cost to fight the Cameron Peak fire was estimated to be $134 million. The preliminary property damage estimate of $91.8 million only includes the residences and outbuildings.

Source: NOAA Storm Events Database, event_id 926096. Narrative written by the NWS forecast office that issued the report.