There is increased fire behavior on the west side of the fire, where the fire is burning in spruce but with no significant movement.

The Decker Fire, burning south of Salida, was mapped today at 3,746 acres, and is only 5% contained.

Fire on the north-facing aspect of Methodist Mountain is now being driven northeast and east by wind. Dozers are at work creating lines parallel to the powerlines heading east toward the 101. Heavy aircraft has been dropping retardant in this area between the fire and the Bear Creek neighborhood.

More Decker Fire News

The Decker Fire crested over Methodist Mountain late last night (Oct. 1) causing the Chaffee County Sheriff’s Office to issue mandatory evacuations.

The evacuation point has been moved to the Methodist Church in Salida. Fire teams are using the Chaffee County Fairgrounds as a staging area.

Heart of the Rockies Radio will continue to update information as it becomes available.