Grass fires threaten Colorado Springs due to dry conditions

Grass fires broke out near Colorado Springs on Thursday, fueled by dry conditions and strong winds. The Meridian Fire, which started around 1 p.m., burned over 3,000 acres and led to temporary evacuations in the Arrowhead Trailer Park. By evening, the fire was 30% contained. Another fire near 30th Street and Garden of the Gods Road threatened three homes but was contained to 20 acres. The Colorado Springs Fire Department responded with 40 personnel, and the fire was fully contained by Thursday afternoon. El Paso County is under a red flag warning due to high fire danger, with winds reaching up to 65 mph. A spring storm system is expected to bring cooler temperatures and moisture, but winds will remain strong.