Yesterday afternoon a new fire began in the Rist Canyon Area. It began as a brush fire and is located about 12 miles from my condo. The above image was taken yesterday evening around 6:40 pm at Reservoir Ridge Natural Area, a favorite hangout for me. Here is what that scene normally looks like at sunset. This is in the same vicinity of the High Park fire back in 2012 that burned over 87,000 acres and killed one woman. Needless to say the air quality is horrible at the present moment. We are now getting smoke from our two fires and but also the smoke from California fires are now moving into the area, even reaching as far east as Nebraska.
If you look closely in this image you can see the helicopter carrying a bucket of water to the fire. They have brought in firefighters from the Cameron Peak Fire in an attempt to gain control as quickly as possible. But, we are talking about nature which we have no control over. Last report I saw this morning the fire had grown to 140 acres at 11:00 pm last night with 0% containment.
The Cameron Peak fire is now over 19,000 acres and at 0% containment. Weather conditions are not good. Temperatures are expected to be in the 90’s the next five days with no precipitation. I’m inside this morning with my door closed because of the smoke. Not burying my head in the sand but trying not to take in any more smoke and soot than necessary. Probably not going to run a marathon today but I will try to get my walk in.
8 Comments
Tom Dills
Just yesterday I was looking at Google Maps and the route from Steamboat Springs to Fort Collins was taking me north toward Cheyenne or south to Grand Lake. I tried and tried but couldn’t figure out why, until it dawned on me that CO-14 is closed. Duh!
You know that we’re keeping an eye on things and certainly hoping for the best as far as your own situation. Another reason to stay indoors, as though that was what we needed. Yikes!
Too bad we can’t channel some of the rain from two hurricanes up your way! 🙂
Monte Stevens
Feel free to UPS some rain out here, two packages would be super. We could sure use it.
Dry and hot conditions for the next few days as is most of the Southwest. The Cameron Peak fire is growing, now at over 20,000 acres. I saw they have some containment on the Lewstone fire but on 12%. I went through a sneezing spell this morning because the air is heavy with smoke, soot and ash. They have a critical air quality warning out this morning.
Cedric
Sorry to hear that you are getting more fires. Do they know how they are starting? Many of the fires in Australia were started intentionally. There were over 180 arrests made which is saddening. Hopefully that’s not the case over your way. In any case, try and stay out of the smoke Monte, I sure know what that is like; not pleasant at all.
Monte Stevens
No they do not know the cause of either fire. The Cameron Peak fire is at a large lake and recreation area, boating, fishing and camping. Cameron Peak itself is in the Raywah wilderness area which is a popular backpacking area. We may never know.
The smoke has been intense the past three days. I’m even wearing a mask when walking to help filter out the smoke and soot. I also can feel it in my throat. More than anything, I want to see blue sky!
Mark
A lot of lightning strikes and very dry conditions is what I have read for the folks out in California.
Monte Stevens
I’ve heard the same.
Mark
Wishing you well Monte and staying safe. I often wondered if the smoke is so bad for some that even staying indoors is an issue. Generally there is lower air circulation inside also.
Monte Stevens
Thank you, Mark. The smoke is probably not the best thing for me since the aortic valve replacement a year and a half ago. I have a friend who has some real issues with the smoke due to her health. I feel fine but need to take care of myself. Not running any marathons or even thinking about it. 😊