little moisture. Due to the continuing potential for this type of weather,
the red flag warning remained in place for most of the day operations.
Active fire behavior may still be observed on top of East Peak; fire
managers are developing a safe plan for this area. Mop up and patrol
remain the top priority on the fireline. Because of the dry conditions and
low fuel moistures, the East Peak Fire will continue to display
intermittent activities and smoke may be visible, especially in the
southwestern portion of the fire for the foreseeable future.
Night Operations Section Chief Dick Terry stated at briefing this evening,
“Continue to be diligent, check structures, check the perimeter.” Tonight,
firefighters were directed to expect mostly creeping and smoldering fire
behavior with some small flare-ups. There is also a chance for lightning.
This is the last planned full night shift.
The East Peak Fire acreage increased slightly to 13,521 acres, and the
containment increased to 75 percent. Firefighters continue to mop up and
patrol around structures as well as mop up the controlled perimeter.
With the increase in containment, resources continue to demobilize,
becoming available for reassignment to other fires in the area. There are
currently 10 handcrews as well as 5 helicopters, 36 engines, 16 water
tenders, and 3 dozers, accounting for 519 personnel assigned to this
incident. The Colorado Army National Guard and the Colorado Air National
Guard have been providing firefighting, security, and communication
personnel to the incident.
Huerfano County and the Pike San Isabelle National Forest are now enforcing
Stage II Fire Restrictions. For more information please go to:
http://www.huerfano.us/ and
http://www.fs.usda.gov/alerts/psicc/alerts-notices/?aid=18278
For road closure or area evacuation updates, please contact Huerfano County
at 719-738-1044 or www.cotrip.org/roadconditions.htm.
Information provided by East Peak PIO.
