Good morning southern Colorado and here's what you need to know on your Tuesday morning.
If you'd like to read the full story, be sure to click on the story headline.
_____
Three D20 schools quarantine staff/students Monday
Academy School District 20 announced Monday evening that three schools had to quarantine students and or staff Monday after they showed "COVID-like symptoms." The three schools are Woodmen Roberts Elementary, Ranch Creek Elementary, and Frontier Elementary. The district said these individuals have not tested positive for COVID-19, but they are taking action out of an abundance of caution at all three schools.
_____
Thorpe Fire 50% contained, evacuations lifted
Crews have made good progress on the Thorpe Fire that started Sunday afternoon in Park County, prompting evacuations and threatening nearby structures, according to the U.S. Forest Service. The Forest Service said at 7 p.m. Monday that the fire is estimated at 159 acres and is 50% contained. Evacuations have been lifted and residents will be allowed to return to their homes at 7 p.m., but remain in pre-evacuation status.
_____
Hot and smoky - more isolated thunderstorms
Hot and smoky today with a chance for showers and thunderstorms in the afternoon. Storm chances stay highest over the mountains today, but a few will try to wander out into Fremont and El Paso counties near Canon City and Colorado Springs.
_____
El Paso County, Pueblo announce Stage II restrictions
The El Paso County Sheriff's Office announced Monday morning it is raising fire restrictions from Stage I to Stage II that is now in effect. The sheriff's office said this elevated status came after a meeting with the Colorado Springs Fire Department, Colorado Springs Utilities, Pikes Peak Fire Chiefs, Division of Fire Prevention and Control, and the North East Teller County Fire Protection District. Fountain and Pueblo also announced Stage II Fire Restrictions Monday.
_____
Pueblo School District 70 creates COVID Response Team
The new year at Pueblo School District 70 brings a new team to help with the response to COVID-19. The D70 COVID Response Team is made up of staff members from across the district. The group's responsibility is to identify and trace any contacts of students or staff who might test positive for COVID-19. The team also has the choice to close down schools in the district and decide when someone can return to a building.
_____
Don't forget to follow us on social media:
KOAA Facebook / KOAA Twitter / KOAA_5 Instagram
