The so-called Duckett Fire, located in northwest Custer County on the San Isabel National Forest, has burned around 1000 acres. Reports that the fire has spread to adjacent Fremont County have been rescinded, but the blaze is just south of the county line.
No structures have been lost, but 40 are threatened. No firefighter injuries have been reported. Fire fighters from the United States Forest Service, Bureau of Land Management, and the Wet Mountain Valley Fire Protection District are on the scene, and more are ordered. Current equipment includes five federal engines, two heavy lift helicopters and two bulldozers.
Low overnight humidity and windy conditions today mean the fire has grown since first reported yesterday afternoon. It’s burning in grass, ponderosa pine, and juniper. The fire behavior is considered extreme at this time, and there is 0% containment.
Approximately 250 people have evacuated their homes. Evacuation centers are located at Custer County High School and Cotapaxi High School.
