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Containment Rises on Western Slope Wildfires Despite Forecasted Storms

Fire teams are racing to shore up containment lines under forecasts predicting thunderstorms, erratic winds, fresh lightning strikes

Helicopter and fire engines at the site of Turner Gulch Fire in Gateway, Colorado on Wednesday, July 16, 2025. (Photo by Hyoung Chang/The Denver Post)
A structure saved by firefighters from the Turner Gulch fire is seen amid charred earth along Colorado 141 north of Gateway, Colorado on Wednesday, July 16, 2025. (Photo by Hyoung Chang/The Denver Post)
A helicopter works at the site of Turner Gulch fire in Gateway, Colorado on Wednesday, July 16, 2025. (Photo by Hyoung Chang/The Denver Post)

Overview

  • The Turner Gulch Fire has expanded to 15,179 acres and reached 34% containment after crews reinforced its western perimeter.
  • The Deer Creek Fire burning across Utah and Colorado now covers 15,655 acres with containment rising to 11% following increased humidity and cloud cover.
  • The South Rim Fire in Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park has scorched 4,227 acres with zero containment and continues to keep park access closed and campground reservations canceled.
  • The Sowbelly blaze in the Dominguez-Escalante National Conservation Area remains at 2,274 acres with 16% containment, while the Wright Draw Fire holds at 448 acres with no containment.
  • Combined burn area in Colorado has topped 23,000 acres and public safety measures include Colorado 141 closures along with mandatory and pre-evacuation orders across Mesa, Delta and Montrose counties.