🔥 Sowbelly Fire Threatens Wilderness Area in Western Colorado

DELTA, MESA & MONTROSE COUNTIES — The Sowbelly Fire, sparked by lightning, is actively burning across approximately 2,241 acres in the Dominguez Canyon Wilderness Area. With 0% containment as of July 12, the fire is spreading rapidly through pinyon-juniper terrain along Tatum Ridge above Escalante Canyon Road.

Evacuation Notices
– Pre-evacuation alerts are in effect for residents along Escalante Canyon Road.
– Campers are urged to relocate closer to Highway 50 due to limited exit routes.
– No new camping is permitted in the canyon.

Fire Behavior
– High winds and heat are driving aggressive fire growth.
– A large smoke plume is visible from Highway 50, impacting air quality in Grand Junction and Olathe.
– Residents with respiratory conditions should take precautions indoors.

Response Efforts
– Fire crews and smoke jumpers are working in steep, remote terrain.
– Suppression efforts are focused on protecting wilderness resources and nearby structures.

🔥 Turner Gulch Fire Prompts Evacuations Near Gateway

MESA COUNTY — The Turner Gulch Fire has grown to approximately 525 acres northeast of Gateway, Colorado. Ignited by lightning, the fire is burning on Bureau of Land Management land and remains uncontained as of July 12.

Evacuation Orders
– Level 3 evacuations are in place between Mile Markers 120–124 on Highway 141.
– Level 2 pre-evacuation warnings extend from Mile Markers 124–128.
– An evacuation center is open at Clifton Community Campus, 3270 D 1/2 Road.
– Large animal sheltering is available by calling 970-778-0161.

Fire Conditions
– The fire is burning in steep, rugged terrain with limited access.
– Crews are using air support and all-terrain vehicles to reach the fire line.
– Structure protection is a top priority.

🔥 Wright Draw Fire Expands Northeast of Gateway

MESA COUNTY — The Wright Draw Fire, also caused by lightning, is burning northeast of Gateway near Highway 141. As of July 13, the fire has reached approximately 255 acres and is contributing to regional smoke and evacuation concerns.

Shared Evacuation Zone
– Wright Draw Fire is included in the same evacuation orders as the Turner Gulch Fire.
– Residents are urged to monitor updates and follow official guidance.

Fire Response
– Crews are working in tandem with Turner Gulch suppression teams.
– Air quality remains a concern due to smoke from both fires.
– BLM resources are actively engaged in containment efforts.

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