A Red Flag Fire Warning is in effect today due to the potential for thunderstorms producing lightning, gusty winds, and little rainfall. Outdoor burning is prohibited.
Across Colorado, at least 15 active fires have burned more than 198,000 acres in Delta, Dolores, Garfield, Grand, Mesa, Moffat, Montrose, and Rio Blanco counties.
Mandatory evacuations were ordered yesterday northwest of Rifle after the southern edge of the Lee Fire reached the Garfield County line. The Lee Fire has grown to 123,000 acres and is just 4% contained.
Chaffee County remains under Stage I fire restrictions, including the towns of Buena Vista and Poncha Springs. Federal Forest Service and BLM lands are not currently under restrictions.
Under Stage I restrictions:
- No campfires in dispersed sites (only allowed in developed campgrounds/picnic areas)
- Stoves, lanterns, and heating devices must have an on/off valve
- Charcoal grills, hibachis, and wood stoves prohibited except on private property
- Smoking only allowed inside a vehicle, building, or developed recreation site
- Explosive targets and agricultural burns prohibited without exception
