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Divide Fire Kicks Up 'Fire Whirl' Weather Phenomenon

MOFFAT COUNTY, Colo. (CBS4) - The Divide Fire has now burned nearly 20,000 acres in Moffat County.

The fire started on June 29 more than 20 miles north of Craig. It's about 40 percent contained.

divide fire on july 4 (credit InciWeb)
Divide Fire on July 4. (credit: InciWeb)

More than 70 fire personnel are there fighting the fire.

Strong wind speeds have fueled the flames. Firefighters from Thornton Fire Department at the Divide Fire shared a picture of a fire whirl on Saturday.

fire whirl (credit thornton fire)
Fire whirl at the Divide Fire. (credit: Thornton Fire Dept.)

Meteorologist Chris Spears explains the phenomenon.

LINK: Divide Fire InciWeb Page

Wildfire Resources

- Visit CBSDenver.com's Colorado Wildfire section.

Wildfire Photo Galleries

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

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