Derby Fire Expands to 5,735 Acres: Rain Offers Hope, Risks Remain High
Avon Park updates on the Derby Fire: growth to 5,735 acres, only 5% contained, with firefighting efforts ongoing amid weather challenges.
Derby Fire Expands to 5,735 Acres: Rain Offers Hope, Risks Remain High
The Derby Fire, which has become a pressing concern for residents and emergency teams alike, has exploded in size, now covering an alarming 5,735 acres as of Thursday morning. Firefighters are diligently working to contain this growing blaze, with containment levels inching up to 5%. An impressive 824 personnel are currently on the ground, battling the challenges posed by both the terrain and the fire itself. Operations Section Chief Philip Knaub has indicated that crews will soon return to the field to fight the fire further, highlighting the urgent need for effective action.
Despite recent rain that brought approximately 0.7 inches of moisture—equivalent to about 104 million gallons of water—operation crews have revealed that significant heat remains in the affected areas when they conducted a flyover. This moisture has certainly helped, but forecasts suggest drier conditions are ahead. Events from Hurricane Juliette could bring further rain and lightning on Friday, adding uncertainty to the ongoing efforts.
Fire Response Efforts
The primary focus is now on the western side of the fire, the most active section, where firefighters are scouting for a secondary camp location. This setup could reduce travel time for crews who are working tirelessly to contain the fire. Additionally, secondary control lines are being established in the Turret Creek area, specifically to manage any potential spread. Meanwhile, on the eastern side of the fire, crews are working on indirect lines away from the fire’s perimeter due to existing hazards in the area.
The Derby Fire originally sparked near Derby Mesa, approximately 13 miles north of Doterso, Colorado, and now intersects Eagle and Garfield counties. As of last Friday, the fire had grown to about 3,569 acres and was not contained at that point. A surge in firefighters up to 211 personnel was noted at that earlier stage, demonstrating the escalating response needed as the fire expanded. Structural protections have been put into place for over 200 structures in danger, indicating that lives and homes are at substantial risk.
Community Impact and Safety Measures
Residents of Sweetwater Road and surrounding areas have been issued evacuation notices, while Derby Mesa Loop currently maintains a pre-evacuation status. Safety measures continue to be a priority, with sprinkler kits deployed and surrounding fuels removed along critical roads. The National Multi-Agency Coordination Group (NMAC) has categorized the fire activity as a Preparedness Level 4 (PL4), indicating heightened wildland fire activity across the nation, prompting strategic resource allocation.
As communities are affected, it is essential to remain vigilant and responsible. The NIFC emphasizes that even simple actions—like ensuring chains are secured and campfires are properly extinguished—can significantly enhance local safety and assist in wildfire prevention.
The situation remains fluid, and with weather forecasts predicting the potential for thunderstorms, it’s crucial for everyone to stay informed. For additional evacuation information and resources, residents can visit www.ecemergency.org.
As this fire continues to evolve, we must stand together, supporting our first responders and each other during these challenging times.