A lightning strike ignited a fire Wednesday on White’s Mesa on the southeast side of Mesa Verde National Park, according to a press release from the park. Named the East Rim Fire, it is about 10 acres and is burning in grass. No structures are threatened.
Due to the current unpredictable weather patterns, the park has initiated a full-suppression attack. To assist with firefighting efforts, the park Fire Management Office has ordered one helicopter, one Single Engine Air Tanker (SEAT), and a 15-person hand crew. There is a low threat to visitors, park infrastructure and archaeological resources. All park facilities and trails remain open.
Should this fire become more visible or conditions change, park staff will place informational signs on the park roads. Additional updates regarding this incident will occur if needed and will be posted on the park’s website and Facebook page, at www.nps.gov/meve and www.facebook.com/mesaverdenps.