Pine Ridge Fire Update for 7-01-2012
Incident: Pine Ridge Wildfire
Released: 7/1/2012
Date July 1, 2012
Time 08:00 a.m.
Weather: Another day of hot, dry conditions with southwest winds. Winds will be light, five miles per hour early in the day and increase to 15 miles per hour, with gusts up to 25 miles per hour by mid-afternoon. The Haines Index, which measures the stability and dryness of air over a fire, is six, which is the highest measure for this index. This indicates that there is a high potential for extreme fire behavior, intensity and growth.
Current Situation: Yesterday, firefighters took advantage of downslope winds to conduct burnout operations that will aid in strengthening firelines for today's expected weather. A wind shift is expected that will test the north, northeast and southeast parts of the fire. Today, fire crews will work with aviation resources to tie fire line to the Colorado River and suppress hot areas of the fireline. In addition, Union Pacific is working with firefighters to help them gain access and deliver water by rail.
Due to numerous resource concerns, like oil and gas well locations, cultural resources, threatened and endangered species, and the Wild Horse range, four resource advisors from the area are working with firefighters to ensure protection of resources during suppression efforts.
Evacuations and Public Safety: Mesa County Sheriff's office, Bureau of Land Management, Colorado Department of Transportation, Union Pacific, and utility companies, have been critical in coordinating with the Rocky Mountain Incident Management Team on public safety. They will remain involved throughout the remainder of the fire activity.
Mesa County residents can register for the Emergency Notification through the City of Grand Junction website at: www.gjcity.org. This will allow 911 operators to notify residents by land line and cell phone of emergencies or evacuation orders being reinstated.
1-70 is currently open but travelers should be aware that road closures could be implemented if fire activity warrants. Check with Colorado Department of Transportation at www.cotrip.org for latest updates on road closures across the State of Colorado.
Community Meeting: A community meeting is scheduled today at 5:30 p.m. at The Community Center, 397 Minter Ave., DeBeque.
