Beaver Creek Fire Forces More Evacuations

WALDEN, Colo. (CBS4) - Parsons Draw residents on Saturday have been notified by Jackson County sheriff to leave in advance of the Beaver Creek Fire.

The fire has burned more than 13,600 acres since it started June 19. What sparked the fire remains under investigation.

Fire activity increased as drier and windier conditions increased in the area. The fire is burning near the Wyoming-Colorado state line.

The fire continues to burn and has the potential to spread in all directions, including into sage and grassy fuels. The fire continues to be fueled by beetle kill trees.

PHOTO GALLERY: Beaver Creek Fire

There are 145 total personnel battling the blaze along with 12 engines, one dozer and two helicopters.

The fire is estimated at 5 percent contained and could burn into October.

Saturday's Statement From The Incident Information System

The Beaver Creek Fire is burning in heavy beetle killed timber. The infested trees are subject to blowing over with large amounts of down timber, making the forest unsafe for firefighters. For the safety of firefighters, the IMT is allowing the natural process of the fire to occur while focusing their resources on the values at risk. This suppression strategy provides for both firefighter safety and the protection of life and property.

Recent rains in the past week have slightly reduced the intensity of the fire. However, active fire still exists along the perimeter and is consuming unburned areas within the interior of the fire. Hotter, drier conditions will return to the fire area over next several days which will support increased fire activity.

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