Hundreds of homes feared lost in Colorado fires

Hundreds of homes are feared lost in fast-moving bushfires in Colorado, as flames tore through areas desiccated by a historic drought.

Flames engulf homes in the town of Superior in Boulder County, Colorado. Picture: AFP

Hundreds of homes are feared lost in fast-moving bushfires in Colorado, as flames tore through areas desiccated by a historic drought.

At least 650ha have burned in Boulder County, much of it suburban, with warnings that deaths were likely as the blaze took hold of hotels and shopping centres in the town of Superior.

“We know that approximately 370 homes in the Sagamore subdivision … have been lost. There’s a potential of 210 homes lost in Old Town Superior,” Boulder Sheriff Joe Pelle said.

“I’d like to emphasise that due to the magnitude and intensity of this fire and its presence in such a heavily populated area, we would not be surprised if there are injuries or fatalities.”

The Colorado Sun newspaper reported that several people had been treated for burns, with at least six patients at one hospital.

Footage broadcast by CBS showed what appeared to be an apartment complex on fire, as firefighters tried to douse the flames. One video on Twitter showed a fire in a car park, with trees and grass ablaze, as strong wind pushed smoke around.

Thousands of people have been told to flee the fast-moving fire, which is thought to have begun when power lines were toppled by gusting winds.

AFP