The Town of Pagosa Springs implemented heightened fire restrictions in response to elevated wildfire risks stemming from hot, dry weather across the region.
Stage 2 restrictions took effect at 6 p.m. on July 6, prohibiting activities such as fireworks, exploding targets, and certain open burning to mitigate human-caused ignitions.
Wildfire Response
On July 28, the Rio Blanco Fire ignited about 12 miles south of town, quickly expanding to over 400 acres and leading to mandatory evacuations for residents in affected areas including along County Road 335.
Officials directed evacuees to Pagosa Springs High School as a shelter, with additional provisions made for livestock at the county fairgrounds and pets through local humane services. The blaze, reported as natural in origin, threatened up to 373 homes at one point with no containment achieved initially.
Stage 2 measures were later lifted on July 24, though Stage 1 restrictions remained active to address ongoing dry conditions.
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