PALISADE, Colo. (KKCO) -- A fire completely destroys the observatory at Palisade High School.

The building, which is just south of the baseball field, caught fire before 4:30 a.m. this morning, according to Palisade Fire Department Chief Richard Rupp.

The nearest hydrant was about a quarter of a mile away, so Palisade Fire crews were challenged to find water.

Rupp says firefighters called in backup from the East Orchard Mesa Fire District, which provided a water tender as well as more personnel.

The observatory is a total loss. Firefighters are still investigating the cause, but no one was injured.

Palisade High School will have class as usual today.