MEEKER ~ MEEKER - In response to the ongoing wildfires in Rio Blanco County, Governor Jared Polis has authorized the mobilization of the Colorado National Guard. The Elk Fire, located southeast of Meeker, and the Lee Fire, southwest of Meeker, have both been causing significant damage and threatening nearby communities.

The governor's authorization allows for the use of National Guard assets to assist with fire suppression efforts if needed. This decision comes as strong winds continue to fuel the fires in Rio Blanco County.

On Wednesday evening, the Lee Fire jumped CO Highway 13, prompting evacuations in the surrounding areas and putting the entire town of Meeker on pre-evacuation status. As of Wednesday evening, the Lee Fire was estimated to be approximately 45,000 acres in size.

Governor Polis had previously declared a disaster emergency over the weekend for the Elk Fire. However, he has now updated that declaration to also include the Lee Fire. Prior to Wednesday evening, the Lee Fire had only been burning on Bureau of Land Management (BLM) land.

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With this updated designation, state emergency operations and resource mobilization plans have been activated. The Colorado Division of Homeland Security and Emergency Management (DHSEM) is leading the overall state response through its State Emergency Operations Center and deployment of field operations staff to support county emergency managers.

The Division of Fire Prevention and Control (DFPC), which is part of the Colorado Department of Public Safety, is also playing a crucial role in managing these wildfires. They are working alongside other divisions within the department to mobilize fire suppression resources and assist with incident management efforts.

As these devastating fires continue to rage on, Governor Polis and state agencies are taking swift action to protect communities and minimize damage. The Colorado National Guard's involvement will provide much-needed support for fire response efforts in Rio Blanco County.

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