A fast-moving wildfire known as the Meridian fire burned approximately 3,000 acres east of Colorado Springs on March 13, 2025, prompting evacuations and closing roads as firefighters worked tirelessly to contain it. The fire ignited around 1 p.m. near South Meridian and Drennan Roads, approximately nine miles from the Colorado Springs Airport. By 9:30 p.m., firefighters reported the fire was 70% contained, though it had destroyed one structure and temporarily put residents on edge.
Mandatory evacuation orders were issued for areas near Davis Road, Enoch Road, and Franceville Coal Mine Road, with the evacuation zone extending to the southern edge of Schriever Space Force Base. According to the El Paso County Sheriff's Office, as the situation developed, most mandatory evacuation orders were later downgraded to voluntary, aside from specific homes along Blaney Road and Hammer Ranch Road.
Highway 94 was closed from Marksheffel to Curtis Roads from 3 p.m. until reopening shortly after 9:30 p.m., complicate travel for residents. The sheriff's office urged those returning to the area to maintain caution, as visible smoke continued to linger from hot spots。
Firefighters encountered another blaze near Garden of the Gods, which threatened three homes before rapid containment. This fire, which encompassed about 20 acres, was brought under control quickly thanks to the dedicated efforts of nearly 40 firefighters. Notably, none of the homes were destroyed, and the city’s fire department confirmed no evacuation orders were deemed necessary at this location.
The response to the Meridian fire involved multiple firefighting agencies, including the Colorado Springs Fire Department. Just before 6 p.m., the situation had improved enough for officials to downgrade evacuation orders for most residents. At the forefront of this coordinated effort was Sheriff’s Sgt. Kurt Smith, who noted, "The fire was burning north toward Colorado 94. Right now, we’re working on stopping the fire from moving and keeping structures... from catching fire." His comments underscored the urgency of the response which focused heavily on protecting nearby infrastructure and homes.
Although the cause of the Meridian fire remains unknown, it erupted under conditions conducive to fire spread, including warm temperatures and strong winds. The El Paso County Sheriff's Office announced earlier evening reports indicating the fire had caused damage primarily confined to three outbuildings, with no injuries reported among the communities affected.
By the time the smoke began to dissipate, many residents were left anxious, with evacuation notices affecting many households, some of which took refuge at the Red Cross evacuation center at Patriot High School. Shelters provided snacks and necessary supplies for those displaced from their homes as firefighting efforts continued.
Fire officials were clear about the dangers posed by the prevailing weather conditions, with red flag warnings indicating heightened fire risk even after the efforts to control the blazes began. Their warnings were not just precautionary but aimed at minimizing potential future incidents.
Nearby Peterson Space Force Base aided the firefight by sending additional firefighters and equipment, emphasizing the collaboration among various firefighting agencies within the armed forces. Law enforcement and emergency personnel maintained their presence on-site through the night and anticipated maintaining readiness as the situation evolved.
While the Meridian fire has since been contained, the potential for future fires remains high due to continuing unfavorable conditions. Firefighters and local agencies must remain vigilant and prepared for any new outbreaks as conditions persist.
The March 13 wildfires near Colorado Springs remind residents of the importance of preparedness and awareness during fire season, particularly as dry conditions persist across much of the region. With the threat of future wildfires looming, community engagement and timely responses are more important than ever.