President Barack Obama has issued a disaster declaration for Colorado, releasing federal funds to help areas affected by two deadly and destructive wildfires.

Obama's declaration Thursday makes federal funds available for emergency protective measures for areas affected by the High Park fire in northern Colorado and the Waldo Canyon fire near Colorado Springs. Federal funds also are available for crisis counseling and disaster unemployment assistance for affected residents in El Paso and Larimer counties.

Colorado Springs officials say the Waldo Canyon person has left one person dead and has destroyed an estimated 346 homes.

The High Park fire has killed one person and has destroyed 257 homes.