Simms Fire Update

Friday, May 27, 2022 – 9:00am

Grand Mesa, Uncompahgre, and Gunnison National Forests

Type 3 Incident Management Team

Justin Reece, Incident Commander

Current Situation:

The Simms Fire acreage is currently 313 acres with 100% containment. An infrared (IR) flight was flown yesterday morning, May 26, to help locate any remaining hot spots. The flight provided hot spot locations to firefighters to expedite mop up operations. Most of the identified hot spots were well within the interior of the burn area. Firefighters feel confident the fire will remain contained during the upcoming Red Flag weather. The Forest and Type 3 team have deliberately maintained a robust response team, not only to expedite mop up and suppression repair but also in anticipation of the forecasted wind event this weekend.

Suppression repair work continued today with fence repair on private properties and rehabilitating handlines. Crews have started to place seed around the burn area to help renew native vegetation. Fire crews have also been cleaning structures that were sprayed with retardant during aviation operations. An excavator arrived on Wednesday to begin rehabilitating dozer lines.

The Type 3 Incident Management Team remains in place as mop up operations continue.

Safety: Careful consideration for public and firefighter safety remains the top priority on this incident. Wildcat Canyon and T & M Roads remain closed to the public while fire operations continue. Firefighters request that the public avoid the fire affected area out of respect for community and firefighter safety.

Weather & Fuel Conditions: Critical fire weather conditions return today and will continue through Saturday ahead of a cold front that is expected to arrive on Sunday. Temperatures are expected to be in the high 70’s and humidity will range between 9-14%. Peak wind gusts this afternoon and again on Saturday will be between 30 and 45 mph. Sunday will bring improved humidity levels and cooler temperatures with a few showers also expected throughout the day.

Evacuations and Fire Restrictions: There are no evacuation orders in place. For more information contact https://ouraycountyco.gov/272/Emergency-Management.