RANGELY | Higher relative humidities and cloud cover helped subdue fire activity today. Crews were able to line a significant portion of the fire and begin mop-up procedures. Two helicopters continued to work hot spots and support ground crews in their efforts.
An air tanker has been ordered for tomorrow’s predicted cold front. Winds of 10 to 14 miles per hour with gusts up to 25 mph are forecast and will likely cause erratic extreme fire behavior.
Incident Commander Jim Michels is asking the public to help fire fighters by reducing congestion on Rio Blanco County Road 122. If you choose to stop along RBC Road 122 please find a pullout to allow other traffic to pass by. This is an issue of safety for everyone traveling on that road. RBC Road 103 remains closed to the public.
Acres: 1,340
Location: 18 miles south east of Rangely, Rio Blanco County, on the East Fork of Spring Creek
Start date: Tuesday, July 28, 1:30 p.m.
Land involved: private and Bureau of Land Management
Fuels/vegetation: grass; brush; pinyon and juniper trees; Douglas Fir
Agencies/departments involved: Rio Blanco County; Rangely Rural Fire Protection District; United States Forest Service; BLM; Colorado State Forest Service
Resources assigned: 4 type 1 crews; 1 type 2 crew; 5 federal engines; 1 5-person squad; 1 air tanker
2 helicopters; miscellaneous fire management personnel
Threatened: 5 structures, which are historical cabin and outbuildings; power lines
Cause: human
Damage: approximately 15 power poles burned
Containment: 40%
Full Containment expected: Aug. 1, 6 p.m.
Current fire information is available at 970-826-5108.
