West Fork Fire 32% contained, flash flooding a growing danger
The West Fork Fire Complex burning near Pagosa Springs has grown to 109,615 acres. The fire is now 32% contained.
A flash flood watch was issued for the West Fork Fire burn area Friday as thunderstorms fueled by monsoon moisture threatened to dump heavy rain on the scorched land. Burned soil is unable to absorb water, increasing the risk of flash flooding.
Officials say the rain and higher humidity have kept fire activity minimal this week. Fire fighters are now recovering equipment and rehabilitating land that was disturbed by fire fighting and structure protection efforts over the past three weeks.
Firefighters have struggled to keep victims updated with detailed information about the firefight online. They said they’ve had trouble updating inciweb.org. In response they’ve set up this blog for fire victims.
