Update 5:50 p.m. 6/10/26:
Colorado River Fire Rescue reports a backyard fire in north Rifle quickly spread to wildland areas and structures on Wednesday.
The agency initially responded to the fire at approximately 4:01 p.m. Wednesday in the 100 block of Willow Creek Circle.
Strong winds and “heavy fuel conditions” quickly caused the fire to spread into a wildland area along Government Creek, according to a press release. The fire continued to spread to the roof of an eight-unit apartment building at the Rifle Creek Apartments. It’s believed to be a total loss after sustaining significant damage. Firefighters rescued one dog from an apartment.
The cause of the fire is under investigation.
ORIGINAL STORY:
Evacuations are ongoing for portions of north Rifle due to a vegetation fire.
The Willow Fire is burning near Highway 13 and West 26th Street.
Evacuations are requested for West 28th Court, West 29th Street and West Avenue. Rifle Police said those displaced by the fire can seek refuge at the Garfield County Fairgrounds, where the Red Cross and Colorado Department of Human Services are providing support.
West 26th and West 30th streets are closed.
As of about 4:45 p.m. Wednesday, two helicopters and local fire units were on scene and working on structure protection with mutual aid requested.
Fire command said as of 6:00 p.m., the fire was holding well with hoselay around it and a brush truck had been requested to cut trees of concern. The total size of the fire is currently unknown.
For those displaced by the fire, Journey Home Animal Care is accepting pets from evacuated families. Call 970-625-8808.
This is a developing story and may be updated with additional information. Check back for updates.