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Crews Make Progress On Walsenburg Blaze

WALSENBURG, Colo. (AP/CBS4) - Firefighters are making progress on a wildfire that has forced people in 300 homes near Walsenburg to flee.

Fire officials say the 19-square-mile wildfire burning seven miles southwest of Walsenburg was 10 percent contained Sunday. But officials say a portion of the fire is in heavily timbered areas and there's great potential for growth.

The East Peak Fire was caused by lightning Wednesday afternoon. Fire officials say structure protection remains a priority for crews.

Fourteen buildings have been destroyed so far.

"We've got important documents, photos that we don't have negatives for, jewelry that is worth money," an evacuee said. "We're ready to go at a moment's notice."

The John Mall High School in the northwest part of the city is housing an American Red Cross shelter.

Wildfire Resources

- Visit CBSDenver.com's Wildfire Resources section.

- Read recent Wildfire stories.

Wildfire Photo Galleries

- See images from the most destructive wildfires (Waldo Canyon, High Park and Fourmile) and largest wildfire (Hayman) in Colorado history.

EAST PEAK FIRE MAP
(credit: CBS)

(TM and © Copyright 2013 CBS Radio Inc. and its relevant subsidiaries. CBS RADIO and EYE Logo TM and Copyright 2012 CBS Broadcasting Inc. Used under license. All Rights Reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. The Associated Press contributed to this report.)

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