Firefighters battling a major wildfire in southern Colorado could soon face an even tougher fight, as threatening weather conditions are expected to move into the area.
Thunderstorms carrying strong, gusty winds are forecast to roll through the region, a combination that could make it significantly harder for crews to contain the massive blaze that has already torn through parts of the southern part of the state.
The fire, known as the Aspen Acres Fire, was photographed actively burning on Friday near the community of Rye, Colorado, as crews continued their efforts to establish containment lines around the blaze.
Weather conditions including high winds are among the most dangerous factors firefighters can face, as they can rapidly shift the direction of a fire and cause it to spread faster than crews can respond.
