The Lee Fire burning in Rio Blanco County has grown to an estimated 45,000 acres as containment remains challenging due to hot, dry conditions.

Two lightning-sparked wildfires burning near Meeker in Rio Blanco County had scorched 45,000 acres and 14,250 acres, respectively, as of Wednesday evening, fire officials said.

At 5:05 p.m., the Rocky Mountain Incident Team provided an update about the Lee Fire as well as planned strategies and the potential impact on the town of Meeker. The Lee Fire, which was started on Sunday and combined with another wildfire,