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Firefighters work to keep 30-acre Hogback fire in check

Firefighters from multiple agencies are battling a fire that broke out late Monday afternoon on the Grand Hogback just east of New Castle, on the south side of Interstate 70.

The fire was burning east of the River View Apartments, and west of homes in the Riverbend Subdivision along Garfield County Road 335.

According to a statement from the Garfield County Sheriff’s Office, as of 5:15 p.m. the fire was covering about 30 acres and running south toward the ridge line of the steep Hogback.

Colorado River Fire Rescue spokeswoman Maria Piña said the fire started on the side of the road, but that an official cause had not been determined.

“The fire is on private land, but threatens both state and BLM lands,” according to the sheriff’s statement. “Currently, a fire crew with air support has been ordered. Deputies are on scene along with local fire fighters and resources.”

No evacuations have been ordered, though Riverbend was reportedly on standby. Xcel Energy did decide to cut power to the vicinity as a precaution, and some power poles had burned in the fire,  Piña said.

Ground crews include firefighters from CRFR, the Glenwood Springs Fire Department and the Utah-based Lone Peak Hotshots. Two helicopters, three air tankers and a scout plane were also deployed to the fire. Helicopters were pulling water from a nearby private containment pond and the Colorado River to douse the fire.

“Non-essential personnel and non-residents are being asked to stay off CR 335 in this area and the surrounding roads to allow emergency personnel adequate egress to and from the fire,” the Sheriff’s Office advised.

Several motorists were also stopped along I-70 watching the fire, and causing a safety concern. Piña advised that motorists are being asked not to stop and especially not to get out of their vehicles on the interstate.

The Post Independent will continue to update this story as more information becomes available.

 

Glenwood Springs Post Independent

Glenwood Springs Post Independent, Glenwood Springs, CO. 12K likes. http://www.PostIndependent.com http://www.Facebook.com/GlenwoodSprings

FIRE! Just across the highway from our house

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