by Maxine Deeter

A dry-lightning storm on June 13 sparked a series of fires in San Juan County, two of which continue to burn out of control several days later.

The Lackey Fan fire, at the southwest base of the La Sal mountains, had consumed nearly 1,000 acres by the press deadline on June 17. 

High winds quickly fanned the flames and moved the fire up into Lackey Canyon.  The fire is located within three miles of “new” La Sal.  The fire and smoke are visible from town and throughout the area.  The fire continues to move up the mountain. 

Fire fighters began fighting the fire Saturday.  Slurry planes dropped retardant on the fire Saturday afternoon.

By Sunday afternoon a Type II interagency fire team had arrived in La Sal to combat the fire on the land and in the air. 

As of Monday, the fire was 30 percent contained.  More than 300 personnel in various capacities were on the fire team.

A fire on the Dark Canyon plateau west of Monticello had consumed 215 acres and was just five percent contained on June 17.

An additional 40 firefighters were scheduled to join the 80 already on the site.

With dry conditions, strong winds and hot weather expected in coming days, a red flag warning is in effect for the area.