Colorado Wildfire Fight Intensifies As Heavy Lift Helicopter Battles Flames

A K-MAX helicopter is seen conducting bucket operations from a wildfire helibase as crews continue aerial firefighting efforts on the Willow Fire.

The footage shows the heavy-lift helicopter hovering above the remote staging area with a blue Bambi bucket suspended below by a long cable. The aircraft maneuvers steadily as it prepares for water transport operations or returns from a water source.

Support vehicles, fuel trailers, a white pickup truck, and another helicopter on the ground are visible around the helibase. Smoke-filled skies and distant mountains surround the area as firefighting operations continue in challenging terrain.

The Willow Fire, burning west of Leadville in the San Isabel National Forest, has grown significantly and remains a major concern. The fire has reached approximately 4,000 acres or more, with more than 900 acres of growth reported overnight into July 5. Containment remains around 1%, and the cause is under investigation.

New evacuation orders have been issued for areas on the southern edge of the fire due to overnight growth. Pre-evacuation notices and closures are also in place.

Fire crews are using ground resources and helicopters for water drops while working to build containment lines. The fire has been driven by dry conditions and wind, with lightning from storms potentially complicating firefighting efforts.