Lee Fire Spreads to 45,000 Acres; Meeker Town in Pre-Evacuation

Overview of the Lee Fire Situation

At 5:05 p.m., the Rocky Mountain Incident Team shared an update regarding the Lee Fire and its potential impact on the town of Meeker. The fire, which began on Sunday, has merged with another wildfire known as the Grease Fire, resulting in a total burn area of 45,000 acres as of Wednesday evening.

Casey Cheesbrough, the Incident Commander from the Rocky Mountain Incident Team, provided detailed information about the current status of the fire. According to Cheesbrough, during the day on Wednesday, the southern part of the fire moved eastward towards Highway 13. This movement caused spotting across the road, with the fire spreading due to the presence of heavier fuels in the area, commonly referred to as “the hogback” by locals.

Once established in the hogback, the fire started to spread northward towards Meeker. Air resources have been deployed to drop retardant in nearby irrigated hay meadows, where the fuels are lighter. Officials believe this area is favorable due to natural barriers that could help prevent the fire from reaching the town.

However, if the fire were to spread north out of the hogback and cross to the north side of Highway 13, Meeker could be upgraded to a “Go” status evacuation under the “Ready, Set, Go” system. Cheesbrough emphasized that while the fire has not crossed the highway in that area, it remains a critical focus for operations.

Evacuation Status and Community Response

Currently, the majority of Meeker is in a “Set” status, meaning residents are advised to prepare for a sudden evacuation. Several zones, including Zones 1, 8, 20, 21, 23, 25, 50, 51, and 54, are in a “Go” status, requiring individuals to leave the area immediately. An updated evacuation map for Rio Blanco County can be accessed through the official channels.

Residents needing assistance with evacuation, particularly the elderly or disabled, are encouraged to contact the Rio Blanco County Sheriff’s Office at 970-878-9648 or 970-878-9534.

In response to the ongoing situation, the Rangely Police Department has temporarily suspended camper parking enforcement along town streets. The Rangely Animal Shelter, located at 209 E Main St., is accepting small non-livestock animals displaced by the evacuations. For large livestock, the Rio Blanco County Fairgrounds at 700 Sulphur Creek Rd. is offering emergency shelter. A Red Cross Shelter has also opened at Moffat County High School, located at 900 Finley Ln. in Craig, for evacuees.

Community Efforts and Resources

The Rangely Area Chamber of Commerce, in collaboration with the Rio Blanco County Government, is working to compile available human and emergency resources to support those affected by the Lee and Elk Fires. This information will be shared with the emergency response team to assist evacuees effectively.

As the situation continues to evolve, residents are urged to stay informed and follow the guidance provided by local authorities. Updates on the fire and evacuation orders will be regularly communicated to ensure the safety and well-being of the community.