Several fire restrictions lifted around Colorado amid snowstorm

As Colorado continues to be hit with a large-scale November snowstorm, several counties throughout the state lifted fire restrictions due to snow accumulation.

El Paso County rescinded the stage 1 fire restriction that had been in place since Oct. 4 for all unincorporated areas of the county Thursday afternoon, citing current weather conditions.

"I appreciate the community's cooperation and diligence in adhering to the previous restrictions, which were crucial in protecting and preventing wildfires in the Pikes Peak region," Sheriff Joseph Roybal stated in a news release.

In Manitou Springs, the stage 1 fire restrictions enacted on Oct. 11 were also lifted Thursday, according to Fire Chief John K. Forsett.

Despite lifting restrictions, officials still caution the community of the dry conditions that are expected to return in coming weeks following the current snowstorms.

"Drier conditions remain in the long-term forecasts and will keep us vigilant to adjust restrictions and bans accordingly as fire danger, resources, and predicted weather conditions change," Forsett stated in a news release Thursday morning.

On Wednesday, the Douglas County Sheriff's Office lifted all fire restrictions for all areas of unincorporated Douglas County due to recent snowfall and cooler temperatures.

The Clear Creek County Sheriff's Office has rescinded the stage 1 fire ban that had been in effect since Sept. 3 for all unincorporated areas of the county. Similar to other counties in the state, they cited recent winter weather.

Also on Wednesday, the Forest Service announced that Pikes Peak, South Park, and South Platte Ranger Districts are no longer in stage 1 fire restrictions.