Battle On To Keep Fern Lake Fire Inside National Park

ESTES PARK, Colo. (CBS4/AP) - Firefighters are trying to keep a wildfire from spreading outside the boundaries of Rocky Mountain National Park.

The U.S. Forest Service says about 250 firefighters are working to contain the Fern Lake Fire, which has been burning for nearly two months. The fire has scorched about six square miles and has threatened about 1,000 structures, including some homes.

Fire has burned at least one cabin and forced the evacuation of several areas in and around the park.

Larimer County Sheriff Justin Smith says some residents may be allowed to return on Wednesday.

Traci Weaver with the National Park Service said firefighters are making progress. Because of the calmer winds Tuesday morning they were able to use a heavy air tanker to make water drops.

"It was calmer this morning and we were able to get aviation resources up really early and flying. So that's definitely been helpful," Weaver said. "Conditions are a little bit better, but the gusty winds that we get sometimes were right on the cusp of whether or not those aviation resources can safely fly."

Another informational meeting will take place at Este Park Town Hall at 5 p.m. They plan to talk about the reintegration process for residents. They don't expect everybody to be able to return home but hope for at least half.

Wildfire Resources

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Wildfire Photo Galleries

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