The Stoner Mesa Fire burning in Montezuma and Dolores counties has grown to 7,123 acres with no containment, according to the latest morning update from fire officials. The fire remains active as crews battle shifting winds, low humidity, and challenging terrain.
The incident remains at “Ready” (Level 1) evacuation status from the Montezuma/Dolores County Line to Cayton Campground along the CO 145 Corridor. Mavreeso Campground and West Dolores Campground are closed in the San Juan National Forest.
Tuesday’s Operations
Firefighters worked to hold control lines despite variable winds, with a focus on keeping the blaze away from the Highway 145 and County Road 38 corridors. Structure protection teams have been assessing and safeguarding homes, cabins, and other structures along both routes.
On Stoner Mesa, crews stopped fire growth along the Stoner Mesa Trail and 535 Road with the aid of helicopter water drops. Plans are underway for a dozer line to run southwest to shield communities near County Road 38.
On Taylor Mesa, crews engaged multiple spot fires between Taylor Mesa Road and Taylor Creek Road. In the Priest Gulch area, the San Juan Hotshots completed a firing operation to extend the fireline south.
Planned Operations Today
- Deploying an additional water tender to resupply helicopter tanks.
- Positioning a dozer on Stoner Mesa to dig new line east of the fire.
- Holding and improving lines on Taylor Mesa’s southern edge.
- Continuing structure assessments between Rico and Stoner, and along County Road 38 toward Johnny Bull Creek.
Weather and Smoke
Southwest winds, increased humidity, and possible thunderstorms are forecast, with storms posing the risk of strong, erratic outflow winds. Smoke will remain visible across Southwest Colorado and may pool overnight in valley bottoms, affecting communities along Highway 145, County Road 38, Dolores, Rico, Telluride, Silverton, Ouray, and the San Luis Valley.
For official updates, visit the Stoner Mesa Fire InciWeb page or the Stoner Mesa Fire Facebook page.
