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Colorado National Guard Deployed as Western Slope Wildfires Exceed 60,000 Acres

An emergency declaration expansion has activated National Guard support, sustaining wildfire suppression efforts during ongoing red flag weather.

Overview

  • The merged Lee/Grease fire now spans over 60,000 acres with zero containment after rapid growth fueled by hot, dry and windy conditions
  • The Elk fire has burned roughly 14,256 acres at 0% containment and destroyed multiple structures as crews reinforce fire lines
  • Governor Polis expanded the disaster declaration this week, bringing in two Type 1 National Guard helicopters and 528 personnel to bolster firefighting efforts
  • Red flag warnings are set to continue through Saturday, with gusty winds and low humidity forecast to sustain extreme fire behavior
  • Mandatory evacuations and pre-evacuation notices remain in place for Meeker and nearby recreation areas as ranchers and residents rescue livestock and assist firefighting operations