(COLORADO) — June 23 marks 13 years since the Waldo Canyon Fire ripped through the Pike National Forest and Colorado Springs neighborhoods.

The fire, fueled by extreme temperatures and high winds, destroyed nearly 400 homes, killed two people, and burned more than 18,000 acres. The fire began on June 23, 2012, in the Pike National Forest three miles west of Colorado Springs, north of Highway 24.

Three days later, the fire burned into the Mountain Shadows neighborhood, destroying 347 homes and damaging many others. In 12 hours, the fire burned through the neighborhood, 26,00 people were forced from their homes as fire crews, who worked 16-hour shifts, battled the flames.

At that time, Waldo Canyon became the most destructive wildfire in Colorado’s history.

The fire caused the death of a Colorado Springs couple, 74-year-old William Everett and his 73-year-old wife, Barbara.

13 years ago today, the Waldo Canyon Fire began its destructive path, destroying hundreds of homes, claiming two lives, and testing the strength of our community.

This is the reality of wildfire in Colorado Springs. Preparation and vigilance remain as important as ever. We ask that you continue to take proactive steps in mitigating your wildfire risk and begin your preparations now. Wildfire preparedness doesn’t stop with your public safety partners. We need you to be ready, too.

Colorado Springs Fire Department

As the years have passed, the community has rebuilt. However, some scars remain, with the Waldo Canyon Trail and Burn area remaining closed until 2029.

FOX21 News has reached out to the El Paso County Sheriff’s Office for comment and an update on the Waldo Canyon fire case.