A fierce wildfire, triggered by a lightning strike, is tearing through the South Rim of the Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park — forcing evacuations, closing roads, and keeping crews on high alert through the night.
How It Started — And Where It Stands
The South Rim Fire sparked around 11:30 a.m. Thursday, and within hours, it chewed through thousands of acres of rugged canyon land. By 11:00 p.m., InciWeb reports the blaze had scorched at least 1,640 acres.
The fire sits just nine miles east of Montrose, Colorado, a place folks know for its dramatic cliffs and steep drop-offs — not exactly easy terrain for 300 firefighters to tackle.
Zero percent containment. That’s the number no one wants to see.
Fast Evacuations And Road Closures
Evacuation orders went out by 1:00 p.m. as the fire moved fast. The Montrose County Sheriff’s Office blocked all park entrances, letting only residents pass through to gather their kids and pets.
The National Park Service confirmed every staff member, hiker, and camper was safely evacuated. One official said the steep canyon walls actually helped funnel folks out quickly — but also make the fire’s spread unpredictable.
Just one sentence: Highway 347 at the junction of Highway 50 is closed tight.
More Than One Fire Burning
The South Rim Fire isn’t alone. Crews are also keeping eyes on two other blazes in the area — the North Rim Fire and the Warner Fire. Both are smaller for now, but the rugged landscape and dry summer winds mean they can grow fast.
Locals remember 2018, when fires forced evacuations across parts of Montrose County. Many here still keep go-bags ready by the door just in case.
What 300 Firefighters Are Up Against
Fire crews from across Colorado have been deployed. Here’s what they’re facing:
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Steep terrain and loose rock making it dangerous for ground crews.
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Shifting canyon winds that push flames in unpredictable directions.
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Limited water sources in remote areas of the park.
One firefighter summed it up: “It’s like playing chess on a cliff. One wrong move, you’re in trouble.”
The Park Stays Closed
Park officials locked the gates until further notice. The South Rim’s famous lookouts — usually packed this time of year — now sit empty under a haze of smoke.
Visitors planning trips this weekend are being told to check the National Park Service for updates.
| South Rim Fire Stats | Details |
|---|---|
| Cause | Lightning strike |
| Acres burned | 1,640 (as of 11:00 p.m.) |
| Containment | 0% |
| Highway closures | Hwy 347 at Hwy 50 junction |
| Personnel deployed | 300 firefighters |
| Other fires nearby | North Rim Fire, Warner Fire |
More Heat Ahead
It’s July — prime wildfire season. With dry brush and thunderstorms forecast through the weekend, fire crews know they’re in for a fight.
Residents near the park are being told to stay ready, watch for new evacuation alerts, and keep their bags packed.
One thing’s clear: Black Canyon’s dramatic beauty comes with a harsh side when lightning strikes.
