Rain helped crews fighting the fire near La Junta, which was started by lightning Monday, information officer Barb Timock said. Most of the firefighters had been sent home earlier Thursday.
A 7,200-acre fire on federal land west of Meeker was being allowed to burn in spots to clear dead vegetation and improve wildlife habitat. Sixty-seven firefighters have been assigned to the blaze, which started with a June 3 lightning strike, to ensure it stays within boundaries officials set for it.
Diann Ritschard of the Craig Interagency Fire Dispatch Center said crews were working to protect a power line in the area, including setting fires to deprive the blaze of fuel.
Eight fire engines, four bulldozers and two water trucks were assigned to the fire.
A number of Colorado counties have already instituted fire bans.
``It's extremely dry,'' Timock said. ``Lightning strikes are starting fires and we don't foresee any break in that weather pattern, so of course being extra careful with fire out in the forest is imperative.''
