Rifle, CO — One of the largest wildfires in Colorado’s history continues to burn out of control, prompting the evacuation of a state prison and warnings for residents in remote areas to be prepared to leave. Officials say gusty winds and low humidity are fueling the spread of the Lee Fire, which has already scorched more than 167 square miles (433 square kilometers) across Garfield and Rio Blanco counties.
Prison Evacuation Out of Caution
The Colorado Department of Corrections confirmed that all 179 incarcerated individuals at the Rifle Correctional Center were evacuated on Saturday “out of an abundance of caution.”
They were relocated about 150 miles (240 kilometers) away to the Buena Vista Correctional Complex. According to CNN, no injuries or structural damage have been reported as of Sunday.
“Our top priority is the safety of those in our custody and our staff,” the department said in a statement.
Fire Among the Largest in State History
The Lee Fire, burning roughly 250 miles west of Denver, is now the sixth-largest single fire in Colorado’s history, according to the Colorado Division of Fire Prevention and Control. More than 1,000 firefighters are currently battling the flames, focusing efforts on keeping the fire west of Colorado 13 and north of County Road 5.
Authorities say conditions remain challenging due to:
- Strong, gusty winds spreading embers.
- Low humidity drying out vegetation and fueling flames.
Air Quality Warnings Issued
Health officials have issued air quality alerts for areas impacted by smoke from both the Lee Fire and the Elk Fire, which has burned about 23 square miles (60 square kilometers) to the east. Residents are advised to limit outdoor activity, especially vulnerable populations such as children, seniors, and those with respiratory issues.
“People with heart or lung disease, older adults, and children should avoid prolonged or heavy exertion outdoors,” health officials warned.
Other Major Fires Burning in the West
While Colorado battles the Lee and Elk fires, multiple large wildfires are straining firefighting resources in the western U.S.
In Southern California, crews have achieved 62% containment of the Canyon Fire, which has burned 8 square miles (20 square kilometers) near the Los Angeles–Ventura County line. The blaze destroyed seven structures and injured three firefighters, including a battalion chief who was seriously injured when his pickup truck rolled over in steep terrain.
Meanwhile, the Gifford Fire, California’s largest blaze so far in 2025, has scorched 180 square miles (466 square kilometers) in Santa Barbara and San Luis Obispo counties since erupting on Aug. 1. Officials report 21% containment as of Sunday.
Evacuation Warnings Continue
Authorities in Colorado are urging residents in remote mountain communities to remain alert and ready to evacuate if conditions worsen. They stress that fire behavior can change rapidly and evacuation orders may come with little notice.
What’s your take on the growing wildfire threat in the West? Share your thoughts in the comments.
