We have a morning update on the fire near Pinos Altos being called the Rico Fire. Overnight the fire acreage increased to over 250 acres and there was low fire behavior. Currently there are 142 total personnel assigned to the fire. Pinos Altos townsite and surrounding homes are still under an evacuation notice. The Grant County Conference center is serving as an evacuation location. The Red Cross is on location.
The Rico fire started around 3:30 pm on Tuesday, approximately 1.5 miles northwest of Pinos Altos on BLM land, on the west side of Bear Creek. The cause is unknown.
Seven fire engines initially responded supported by air resources, including two Very Large Air Tankers, one Large Air Tanker, and two Single Engine Air Tankers. The Lolo Hotshots, Redding Hotshots, and Zuni Hotshots have responded to the fire along with two additional fire engines from Reserve. The overall general report is that the Hot Shot crews are making progress. As we know more, we will let you know.
