INRIX Traffic Maps Show Colorado Wildfire Backups Stretch 10 Miles, Congestion Becomes a Big Problem

Drivers on I-25 should prepare to wait in bumper-to-bumper traffic

KIRKLAND, WA--June 13, 2013: INRIX, a leading international provider of traffic information, continues to track congestion on I-25, the primary evacuation route for the Colorado Springs Black Forest fire.  As of 4 p.m., travel times are nearly four times as long as a typical day.

Northbound I-25 from Garden of the Gods Drive to N. Gate Drive is taking nearly 45 minutes when it usually takes 12. This stretch of road is less than 10 miles. Southbound I-25 from Greenland Road to N. Gate Blvd is also taking 45 minutes.

"Emergency officials recommend heading west on Highway 24," said Jamie Holter, INRIX Traffic Analyst. "We recommend this as well. There is no congestion there."

Drivers north of the fire should stay north. Drivers south of the fire should head west and/or south. Drivers determined to use I-25 should head to the highway with a full tank of gas and plenty of patience.

Traffic will change as the fires move. INRIX recommends drivers download a free mobile traffic app that tracks delays, congestion spots, road closures and travel times.