Evacuations have been ordered in Colorado’s Rio Blanco County after winds on Tuesday increased activity on the PL Gulch Fire burning 20 miles southwest of Meeker. The fire, which started on Monday afternoon, was mapped on Tuesday as being 130 acres but an increase in afternoon winds caused the wildfire to more than double by 5pm. Evacuations were ordered for residents along both sides of County Road 5 from Mile Marker 18 to Mile Marker 22. In addition to the evacuation orders, Rio Blanco County Sheriff’s Office announced that the fire has been determined to be human caused. Officials are in contact with the involved parties, who are cooperating fully with the investigation. Road closures continue on County Road 5 and County Road 76.
