The Ferris Fire continues to burn across Dolores County, Colorado, expanding to nearly 63,000 acres and becoming one of the largest wildfires in state history. As firefighters battle the fast-moving blaze under difficult conditions, Colorado Governor Jared Polis has declared a state disaster emergency, authorizing additional personnel, aircraft, and National Guard resources to support ongoing suppression efforts.
The wildfire, burning north of Cortez near the Four Corners region, has prompted mandatory evacuations, threatened homes and infrastructure, and mobilized hundreds of firefighters working around the clock to slow its advance.
Colorado Declares Disaster Emergency
On Wednesday, July 9, Governor Jared Polis issued a disaster emergency declaration in response to the rapid growth of the Ferris Fire.
The declaration activates Colorado’s State Emergency Operations Plan, allowing state agencies to deploy additional resources to communities affected by the wildfire.
The emergency order provides:
-
Additional firefighting personnel.
-
Colorado National Guard support.
-
Expanded aviation resources, including helicopters and air tankers.
-
Emergency management coordination.
-
Increased logistical support for local agencies.
State officials said the declaration is intended to strengthen ongoing efforts to protect residents, firefighters, homes, businesses, and critical infrastructure.
Fire Continues to Grow Across Rugged Terrain
Fire officials reported that the Ferris Fire has now burned approximately 63,000 acres, with crews achieving 21% containment.
The wildfire has displayed extreme fire behavior, particularly within Dolores Canyon and neighboring side canyons, where steep terrain, dense vegetation, and dry weather have complicated firefighting operations.
Large smoke columns have been visible throughout southwest Colorado, with changing winds contributing to rapid fire spread.
Management of the incident has transitioned to California Incident Management Team 7, which is coordinating suppression operations involving federal, state, and local agencies.
Ferris Fire – Quick Facts
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Fire Name | Ferris Fire |
| Location | Dolores County, Colorado, north of Cortez near the Four Corners region |
| State | Colorado |
| Reported Size | Approximately 63,000 acres |
| Containment | 21% |
| Cause | Under investigation |
| Structures Destroyed | Unverified – No official statewide damage total has been released. |
| Injuries | No firefighter or civilian injuries publicly confirmed |
| Fatalities | None reported |
| Personnel Assigned | More than 658 firefighters and support personnel |
| Incident Management | California Incident Management Team 7 |
| Governor’s Action | Disaster Emergency Declaration issued by Gov. Jared Polis |
Evacuations Remain in Effect
Mandatory evacuation orders remain in place for several communities, particularly in areas south and east of Dove Creek, where fire activity continues to threaten homes.
Additional neighborhoods remain under pre-evacuation notices, meaning residents should prepare to leave immediately if conditions worsen.
Emergency managers continue monitoring weather conditions while firefighters work to strengthen containment lines around vulnerable communities.
Firefighters Protect Homes and Infrastructure
More than 658 firefighters, heavy equipment operators, engine crews, and aviation teams remain assigned to the Ferris Fire.
Suppression efforts currently include:
-
Constructing fire lines.
-
Deploying sprinkler systems around homes.
-
Installing protective hose lines.
-
Conducting aerial water and retardant drops.
-
Monitoring changing weather conditions.
-
Defending threatened structures.
Officials say steep canyons and dense timber continue to present significant challenges for firefighters.
Community Meetings and Public Information
Emergency officials have been holding community briefings to keep residents informed about the evolving wildfire situation.
A recent public meeting at the Dolores County Public Service Center in Dove Creek provided updates on:
-
Fire progression.
-
Evacuation zones.
-
Weather forecasts.
-
Containment efforts.
-
Available resources for displaced residents.
The San Juan National Forest continues publishing daily updates regarding the fire’s status and current restrictions.
What Residents Should Do
Officials are urging residents in evacuation and pre-evacuation areas to remain prepared.
Safety recommendations include:
-
Follow evacuation orders immediately.
-
Prepare emergency supplies and medications.
-
Keep vehicles fueled and ready.
-
Monitor official wildfire updates.
-
Avoid entering closed forest areas.
-
Do not interfere with firefighting operations.
Authorities stress that wildfire conditions can change rapidly, particularly during periods of strong winds and low humidity.
Outlook
Fire officials warn that continued hot, dry weather combined with difficult terrain could allow the Ferris Fire to remain active for an extended period.
Although containment has improved, firefighters caution that the wildfire remains capable of significant growth if weather conditions become more favorable for fire spread.
Additional updates regarding acreage, containment, evacuation orders, and damage assessments are expected as suppression efforts continue across southwest Colorado.
The Ferris Fire remains one of the most significant wildfires of the 2026 season, with emergency agencies continuing to dedicate substantial resources toward protecting lives, property, and natural resources across Dolores and Montezuma counties.