The Leroux fire northeast of the town of Delta is down to an 179-acre estimate as crews continue to try containing it Tuesday afternoon.

The fire, which was originally reported to be at nearly 700 acres last night, was more accurately measured Monday night after airborne crews mapped it from above, a representative from the Delta County Sheriff’s Office confirmed Tuesday.

Despite the difference, the fire is still provoking evacuations in Delta County. Residents who live off 3100 Road north of the Leroux Creek crossing have been asked to evacuate, according to a fire update published by the U.S. Government.

The roadway itself is also closed, with those who would like to retrieve belongings from their homes asked to contact the office at 970-872-1215 for assistance, according to the update.

The weather conditions observed Tuesday were similar to those on Monday: red flag warnings no chance for participation, and a historically high burning index. 

Firefighters on Thursday worked with the goal of staying around the perimeter, focusing on where the fire was threatening a bulldozer line established two nights prior, the update says. They also would begin the process of building containment, which only occurs when all heat within a certain distance of the line has been extinguished.

The fire, located about a mile and a half east of Redlands Mesa, was first reported around 2:30 p.m. Sunday afternoon. 

Anyone who would like more information about the fire is asked to email 2025.leroux@firenet.gov.