Thunderstorms have been a mixed blessing for fire crews fighting the 4,093-acre Muddy Slide Fire west of Kremmling. Firefighting efforts at Colorado’s two other fires are winding down as containment grows.
Containment is 39% and fire managers are looking to transition to smaller crews to continue suppression efforts, according to the U.S. Forest Service. While rain over the past few days has slowed the spread of the fire, it usually does not extinguish long burning fuels such as large logs and trees, according to the Forest Service.
Thunderstorms also bring the risk of lighting and increased winds that pose a threat to firefighters, the agency said.
The Oil Springs Fire has burned 12,613 acres south of Rangely and is 97% contained, according to the Bureau of Land Management.
Smaller crews will monitor the fire and patrol containment around the fire perimeter, the BLM states.
Editor's note: Since these fires are winding down, the Leader will no longer provide daily updates. However, if the fires decrease in containment or new fires begin, the Leader will resume coverage.
