As of Thursday evening, the KV Fire was estimated at about 10 acres in size with no containment (although retardant has been dropped along the perimeter of the fire, no hand-built containment lines are yet in place). The lightning-caused fire is burning about 1.5 miles north of U.S. 160 up the First Fork Road on the west side of the Piedra River in the San Juan National Forest.
The fire is located about one-third of a mile from nearby powerlines and communication lines. The fire is not threatening any other structures at this time, but the Lower Piedra Campground has been evacuated as a precaution. The smoke column can be seen from U.S. 160 where the highway crosses the Piedra River, but no visibility problems are expected for traffic in the area.
Two heavy air tankers, two single engine air tankers and a helicopter are providing air support.
Today a hot shot crew, Type II crew, initial attack crew and fire module will arrive to swell the number of firefighters to about 60 on the ground.
The KV Fire was ignited Wednesday night by lightning from thunderstorms, along with six other fires on the Columbine Ranger District in a line stretching from Junction Creek to Electra Lake, Lemon, Vallecito and over to the Piedra River. Firefighters have been able to contain all but the KV Fire as of tonight.
Durango Fire and Rescue Authority has been assisting with response.
