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Colorado fire that’s already destroyed 2 homes explodes to 2,000 acres

By Spencer McKee August 4, 2025 | updated 1 day ago

An initial image of the Elk Fire that was shared on Saturday, when the blaze was much smaller in size. Photo: Rio Blanco County Sheriff's Office.

An initial image of the Elk Fire that was shared on Saturday, when the blaze was much smaller in size. Photo: Rio Blanco County Sheriff's Office.

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In case you missed it, a new wildfire popped up in Rio Blanco County on August 2, and it’s since grown to 2,000 acres.

Dubbed Elk Fire, the blaze is burning about 11 miles east of Meeker in northwest Colorado. On Sunday, at about 4 p.m., the fire was estimated to be about 225 acres in size, but by the time a Sunday evening report was released around 9 p.m., it had grown to 2,000 acres in size.

Started by lightning, a Monday morning report kept its size at 2,000 acres, though this may increase when new mapping takes place later in the day. In that report, the fire’s behavior was described as “aggressive,” with the fire having destroyed two homes and an outbuilding. Other structures remained threatened.

According to officials, the fire was active overnight, but didn’t make any major runs. That said, Monday brings another red flag warning day, with increased fire activity expected.

Per that 9 a.m. report, evacuation orders are underway for those along County Road 8 from Mile Marker 11 to Mile Marker 16. County Road 8 is also closed to travelers in this area. Meanwhile, a pre-evacuation notice is in effect for those along County Road 57 (Miller Creek).

As with any wildfire, the situation can change rapidly. Those in the area can sign up for emergency alerts here. Regular updates are being posted about this fire on the Rio Blanco County Sheriff’s Office Facebook page – find that here.

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