The Lee Fire in Western Colorado has rapidly expanded, gaining 27,000 acres in just one night, leading to urgent new evacuations. Significant evacuations are underway, including the relocation of nearly 180 inmates from the Rifle Correctional Center in northwest Colorado. The Colorado Department of Corrections announced that 179 inmates were transferred to secure facilities outside the affected area as a precautionary measure.
The Rifle Correctional Center staff activated their emergency evacuation procedures, ensuring the safe transfer of residents while maintaining strong security protocols in cooperation with partner agencies. Thankfully, there have been no reported injuries to inmates or staff during this process.
As of Saturday evening, the Lee Fire has burned over 92,000 acres, making it the sixth-largest wildfire in Colorado’s history since 2001, with a containment level of only 6% according to the National Interagency Fire Center. The fire has intensified, fueled by shifting winds that have driven it southward, causing officials to issue new evacuation orders specifically in Rio Blanco and Garfield counties.
The Rifle Correctional Center is situated on a 75-acre site in rural Garfield County and operates as a minimum security facility.
While the situation remains challenging, the swift response from emergency services and the diligence in evacuation efforts underscore a commitment to safety during this difficult time. The community is hopeful for the weather to shift in favor of containment efforts as firefighters work tirelessly to battle the flames and protect lives.