Southern Colo. fire burning on 1,000 acres

WESTCLIFFE, Colo. – Fire crews are attacking a wildfire burning on about 1,000 acres in southern Colorado in dry, windy conditions.

Gusts of up to 45 mph were expected Monday at the fire northwest of Westcliffe in the San Isabel National Forest.

The fire broke out Sunday and forced the evacuation of 180 people from a church camp. Residents of about 50 homes have been asked to evacuate but it wasn't clear Monday how many had decided to leave.

Forest Service spokeswoman Barbara Timock said said 40 structures — not all houses — are immediately threatened by the fire. An additional 200 structures are within two miles.

On Colorado's southeastern plains, crews are close to containing three large wildfires that broke out last week.

Hot, windy weather is expected to continue much of the week.