Firefighters in Rio Blanco County are facing escalating challenges as two significant wildfires, the Lee fire and the Grease fire, have merged into a single, intense blaze now consuming over 14,000 acres. The fire, located approximately 18 miles southwest of Meeker, is fueled by hot, dry, and windy weather conditions, which continue to increase the flames’ spread.
Around 300 firefighters are battling the blaze under the guidance of Rocky Mountain Incident Command. Incident commander Matt Weakland emphasized the priority of public and firefighter safety, acknowledging the profound impacts these fires, along with surrounding outbreaks, are having on the community.
Evacuation orders have been issued for areas south of Highway 64, as well as for specific sections of County Roads 76 and 33. Residents are encouraged to stay informed, with updates available through the Rio Blanco Sheriff’s Office on social media. For those needing shelter, the Rio Blanco County Fairgrounds is currently open for evacuees.
In Delta County, the LeRoux fire has led to a state of disaster declaration by Governor Jared Polis. This fire, which has spread to 179 acres, is currently zero percent contained, prompting local officials to issue evacuation orders in specified areas. Fire crews are actively engaged in controlling the fire’s edges and safeguarding nearby homes.
Additionally, the Elk Fire is another cause for concern, covering approximately 7,750 acres and also lacking containment. Evacuation orders are in place for various county roads due to the fire’s proximity.
The White River National Forest has implemented a public closure, and the National Weather Service has issued a red flag warning due to the forecasted gusty winds, low humidity, and dry conditions, which are expected to persist. A fire weather watch is forecasted through Thursday, while an air quality advisory is currently affecting much of western Colorado.
Governor Jared Polis voiced deep concern over ongoing fire conditions in northwest Colorado, which have reached alarming levels. This multifaceted approach to fighting the fires and ensuring community safety demonstrates the dedication of local and state officials in addressing this dire situation. The cooperation between agencies, firefighters, and the public is crucial in navigating these challenging times.
While the situation remains serious, the resilience of the firefighting teams and the community shines through as efforts continue to combat these wildfires effectively.