More than 100 animals evacuated to Loveland ranch during Alexander Mountain Fire

DENVER (KDVR) — A wildfire burning through northern Colorado west of Loveland has forced many residents, along with horses, cattle and alpaca, to leave the area.

The Alexander Mountain Fire began shortly before noon on Monday in the mountains along U.S. Highway 34 in Larimer County. After less than 24 hours, several mandatory evacuations had been ordered east of Estes Park.

Live wildfire updates: Alexander Mountain Fire in northern Colorado grows to 992 acres

With residents leaving the area, some are scrambling to find a safe spot for animals and cattle away from the flames. Lee Foster, one of the many who had to evacuate with horses, told FOX31’s Courtney Fromm that there was traffic filled with horse trailers heading out of the evacuation zone.

Larimer County is providing two evacuation centers. For those in mandatory evacuation areas only, people can take large animals to The Ranch Events Center & Complex.

As of Tuesday morning, the ranch was holding over 100 animals after just one day. The ranch was taking care of 70 horses, 14 goats, 13 cattle, eight sheep and five alpaca.

Despite the large number of animals, the ranch said that due to community support, they are all set on space and supplies.

“We still have room for those in need and have adequate number of volunteers at this time. We are grateful to those who have and are currently volunteering, our ranch staff, local law enforcement, and to the generous farmers who have already donated hay and supplies,” said a spokesperson for the ranch.

Mandatory evacuations remain in northern Colorado for Alexander Mountain Fire

Those not in mandatory evacuation zones can take their animals to Island Grove Regional Park in Greeley.

As of Tuesday morning, the wildfire had spread to over 1,800 acres with 0% containment.

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