A wildfire burning in Rio Blanco County grew from 250 acres to 1,330 acres Wednesday because of winds measured at 30 mph, according to the Northwest Colorado Fire Management Unit.
Crews have been battling the blaze since Tuesday afternoon, when it started in a canyon about eight miles southeast of Rangely on the east fork of Spring Creek.
The fire is burning on private property and federal lands.
Three airtankers and two helicopters have joined the fight, along with ground crews.
Lynn Barclay, spokesperson for the Northwest Colorado Fire Management Unit, said the blaze is threatening oil and gas pipelines and pumper and compressor stations.
The fire also is threatening structures, including a historically significant cabin and a research station.
The cause of the fire is under investigation.
The fire knocked out power to the region on Tuesday afternoon, when it burned a still undetermined number of power poles. Electricity was restored by that evening, however.
The fire is fueled by a mix of sagebrush, piñon, juniper trees and Douglas fir, Barclay said.
