RULISON, Colo. — The Hilltop Fire, burning in Garfield County, is 40% contained as of Saturday morning, with evacuation orders remaining in effect for residents southwest of Rifle.
Several Colorado fire agencies are sending crews to assist Garfield County firefighters in battling the blaze, which had consumed approximately 326 acres.
The Garfield County Sheriff's Office said the below road closures are currently in effect:
- County Roads 309 & 320
- County Roads 320 & 325
Along with those closures, the sheriff's office said there are "additional smaller closures nearby."
Evacuations are in place about a mile west and east of the intersection of County Road 309 and 320, according to the Garfield County Sheriff’s Office.
Pre-evacuation notices are starting at County Road 239.
Approximately 20-25 structures are at risk in the evacuation area, firefighters said Saturday.
Deputies urged residents on the west side of the evacuated intersection to head to the Parachute Fairgrounds. Those on the east side should get to the Garfield County Fairgrounds.
Fire investigators determined that the fire was human-caused. However, an exact ignition source was not released.
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