As of Wednesday evening, the Pearl Fire remains at 128 acres and 5% containment. The US Forest Service reported that a total of 320 personnel were assigned to the fire today, with crews focusing on the north, east, and west sides of the perimeter. Crews traveled along steep terrain, navigating many dead and downed trees as they continued efforts to construct hand and dozer lines. Spot fires were identified and suppressed along the northern edge. Air assets were available but were grounded much of the day due to high winds and heavy gusts in the area.

One structure sustained damage at the fire’s origin point, but no other property damage has been identified at this time. LCSO has determined that the fire originated on private property and was human caused. The Sheriff’s Office investigation is ongoing; further information will not be released about it at this time.

Several evacuation orders remain in effect. An overnight evacuation shelter has been set up at the Livermore Community Church located at 284 W CR74E. Small pets are allowed. Anyone who needs to access the shelter after 7 p.m. should call the Red Cross at 1-800-RED-CROSS.

The large animal evacuation center at The Ranch (5280 Arena Circle, Loveland) closed Wednesday due to lack of need. Assistance is still available for those with large animals displaced by the fire. Call the Joint Information Center during open hours or the Larimer County Sheriff’s Office to coordinate.

“Mother Nature has presented us with obstacles during this fire, from persistent high winds to difficult terrain,” said Larimer County Sheriff John Feyen. “Our wildland firefighters have been working incredibly hard to make progress. It’s physically demanding work, and they continue to rise to every challenge.”

For up-to-date evacuation information, including evacuation areas and roadblocks, visit https://www.nocoalert.org or text LCEVAC to 888777. Fire information can also be found at https://www.larimer.gov/pearl-fire. The Joint Information Center will reopen at 8 a.m. on September 19 and can be reached at (970) 980-2500.

Previous Pearl Fire News Releases

September 16: https://www.larimer.gov/spotlights/2024/09/16/multiple-agencies-fight-pearl-fire-larimer-county

September 17: https://www.larimer.gov/spotlights/2024/09/17/pearl-fire-update