A helicopter and ground crews are working the KV Fire, located about 1.5 miles north of U.S. 160 up First Fork Road (Forest Service Road 622) on the San Juan National Forest. The lightning-caused wildfire, which is headed uphill on the west side of the Piedra River, is now estimated at about five acres in size. Gusty winds are expected in the area, and the fire could threaten nearby power lines and communication lines to the south. La Plata Electric Association has been notified and is on site. The fire is not threatening any other structures at this time.
A helicopter and a single engine air tanker (SEAT) are working the fire, as is one 20-person ground crew. Another SEAT, two heavy air tankers and additional firefighting crews, including a hot shot team, have been ordered. The fire was ignited last night by lightning, along with two other small fires, also burning near the First Fork Road. One of those is currently estimated at one-quarter acre and the other at one-tenth of an acre. The firefighting effort is addressing these smaller fires in addition to the KV Fire.
