10 things you need to know today: December 31, 2021

Wildfires burn hundreds of Colorado homes, Biden holds call with Putin amid Ukraine tensions, and more

Colorado wildfires
(Image credit: JASON CONNOLLY/AFP via Getty Images)

1. Thousands evacuate as Colorado wildfires burn hundreds of homes

Tens of thousands of Colorado residents were told to evacuate on Thursday as two wildfires burned hundreds of homes. Evacuation orders were issued in Louisville and Superior, and the fires were fed by winds of between 80 and 100 miles per hour with gusts up to 115, according to CNN. At least six injuries have been reported, and officials said the fires burned at least 580 homes, as well as a shopping center and a hotel. "I'd like to emphasize that due to the magnitude of this fire, the intensity of this fire and its presence in such a heavily populated area, we would not be surprised if there are injuries or fatalities," Boulder County Sheriff Joe Pelle said.

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Brendan Morrow

Brendan worked as a culture writer at The Week from 2018 to 2023, covering the entertainment industry, including film reviews, television recaps, awards season, the box office, major movie franchises and Hollywood gossip. He has written about film and television for outlets including Bloody Disgusting, Showbiz Cheat Sheet, Heavy and The Celebrity Cafe.