Attention is diverted to the 11 fires in Colorado
Around the main fire perimeter, south of Poudre Canyon, crews will continue to secure containment lines on the southeast (that’s us) and west flanks. Notice the perimeter facing us is “red” while other areas of the perimeter is “black.” Fire is NOT contained in the “red” area. However, we just heard a briefing suggesting that it is likely that this will part of the perimeter – most relevant for us – will turn black soon.
A (Radiometric Airborne Mapping System) RAMS unit was ordered and arrived yesterday afternoon. The radiometric imaging system, attached to the bottom of a helicopter, will provide infrared information similar to what officials have been using, with some key differences. The advantage of the RAMS unit is that it can be used during the daytime, and it can provide real time GPS coordinates for areas of identified heat. In addition it can provide information about the heat source (open flame, smoldering, buried, or diminishing heat). This information will help firefighters determine where suppression efforts should be focused.
The total number of homes lost is now 248 after additional homes were lost late last week in the Glacier View and Hewlett subdivisions (both are on the north side of the fire – not close to us).
Current Situation
Total Personnel 2,037
Size 83,205 acres
Percent Contained 45%
Estimated Containment Date Monday July 30th, 2012 approx. 12:00 AM
Fuels Involved
10 Timber (litter and understory) Grass, Brush and Timber
Fire Behavior
Observed aggressive flanking fire down slope and into the wind on the SW part of the fire with upslope/upvalley winds (this is our area).
Significant Events
The fire backed and spread actively in the southwest corner of the fire. Actions included structure protection, holding, and burnout operations as the fire progressed to the W and SW. A Red Flag Warning is in effect through 2200 hours today, and another Red Flag Warning has been issued for Monday 6/25/2012 from 1100 to 2100 hours.
