Archive · 16 Aug 2025
Wildfires Near Meeker: Lee Fire Grows; New Yellowjacket Fire Reported
There are multiple wildfires near Meeker, Colorado.
The biggest one, the Lee Fire, has grown very large and is now the fifth biggest in the state's history.
It started from lightning strikes and has spread quickly due to dry conditions and heat.
A new fire called Yellowjacket has started, and another fire called Elk is mostly contained.
Authorities have changed evacuation orders to help people prepare or leave.
The Lee Fire in Rio Blanco County, Colorado, has become the fifth-largest wildfire in the state, reaching 133,841 acres.
The Lee and Grease fires merged after lightning strikes on August 2.
A new wildfire, the Yellowjacket Fire, has been reported northeast of Meeker, consuming approximately 5 acres.
The Elk Fire, southeast of Meeker, is 14,518 acres and 93% contained.
Evacuation orders have been adjusted using the “Ready-Set-Go” system.
- Who
- Firefighters and local authorities are managing the fires.
- What
- Wildfires are burning near Meeker, Colorado.
- When
- The Lee Fire started on August 2, the Yellowjacket Fire reported Friday afternoon.
- Where
- Near Meeker, Colorado, specifically in Rio Blanco County and the White River National Forest.
- Why
- The Lee and Grease fires were started by lightning. Drought and extreme heat have fueled their growth.
- Lee Fire Size
- 133,841 acres
- Lee Fire Ranking
- Colorado's 5th largest wildfire
- Yellowjacket Fire Size
- 5 acres
- Elk Fire Size
- 14,518 acres
- Elk Fire Containment
- 93%
- Location
- Rio Blanco County, Colorado