Afternoon winds fuel Jolley Mesa Fire

SILT, Colo. – Late afternoon winds and high temperatures pushed the Jolley Mesa Fire to 540 acres Thursday.

More than 100 firefighters are currently working the fire. Other resources include two heavy air tankers, a single engine air tanker, an air attack and lead planes, a helicopter, and three engines. The fire is currently 25 percent contained.

The fire ignited Wednesday evening three miles east of Silt, Colo., in pinyon-juniper and grass and grew quickly to 270 acres. The cause of the fire is still under investigation.

Throughout Thursday morning and early afternoon firefighters and a helicopter making water drops were able to keep flare ups in check. An afternoon of temperatures over 90 degrees, low humidity and brisk winds resulted in a marked increase in fire activity beginning about 5 p.m.

Several residences are in the area, but none were immediately threatened Thursday night.

An incident command team in en-route and will assume command of the fire Friday.

For the latest information on the Jolley Mesa Fire, the public can call (970) 947-2825.

-BLM-