This is a developing story. It was last updated at 3:05 p.m. on Feb. 28.
Crews with Boulder Fire-Rescue are responding to the Bluebell wildfire burning southwest of Chautauqua in Boulder.
As of the latest mapping from a Multi-Mission Aircraft (MMA) flyover, the fire is now estimated at approximately 1.5 acres, down from earlier estimates of about five acres. More than 100 firefighters are on scene, with assistance from over nine agencies.
Emergency officials issuedan evacuation warning for the Chautauqua Cottages area at 1:25 p.m. Saturday due to the wildfire. Residents can visit BOCO911Alert.org for a map of the affected area and additional information.
The fire was initially estimated at about half an acre, burning in light, flashy fuels and spreading into nearby trees at a moderate rate, per the first unit on scene, according to Watch Duty.
Officials have called in two helicopters to assist. Around 1:20 p.m., four engines and one module were ordered to the scene. Smoke was visible from downtown Boulder.
One helicopter continues dropping water. Fire officials said the blaze continues to spread at a moderate rate and is moving away from Boulder. There is no containment estimate at this time.
The wildfire comes after weeks of unusually warm, dry and windy conditions across Boulder and the Front Range. The area has seen multiple Red Flag Warnings in recent weeks, with low humidity and little measurable precipitation. Snowpack remains well below normal following a historically warm winter, conditions that have raised concerns about an early start to fire season.
Thanks for your reporting on this. I will be following closely. But you should note that there is an error in the article. It says that this happened on Friday, but in fact that happened on Saturday.
Thank you, and corrected.