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CNN Live Today

Wildfire Threatens Denver Suburbs

Aired June 11, 2002 - 14:40   ET

THIS IS A RUSH TRANSCRIPT. THIS COPY MAY NOT BE IN ITS FINAL FORM AND MAY BE UPDATED.

THIS IS A RUSH TRANSCRIPT. THIS COPY MAY NOT BE IN ITS FINAL FORM AND MAY BE UPDATED.
KYRA PHILLIPS, CNN ANCHOR: This could be a make or break day in the battle against an 80,000-acre wildfire that's licking the outskirts of Denver. Lilian Kim is following the developments from nearby Littleton.

LILIAN KIM, CNN CORRESPONDENT: The fire is slowly moving northeast, inching closer to Denver suburbs. But the good news is that it's not moving nearly as fast as it was yesterday. This is the largest fire in Colorado history, which has been burned more than 80,000 acres so far.

(BEGIN VIDEOTAPE)

(voice-over): The fire, which at one point moved as quickly as a mile an hour, came alarmingly close to Denver suburbs, creating a haze over the city and leaving ash and soot behind. Hundreds have left their homes. Many more may eventually be forced out.

Authorities have drawn up plans to evacuate as many as 40,000 residents. High winds, high temperatures and dry conditions are making it tough for crews battling the flames. Firefighters say the blaze was started by an illegal campfire about 50 miles southwest of Denver.

This fire is one of at least eight burning in Colorado.

(on camera): Governor Bill Owens has banned outdoor burning at state parks and national forests in Colorado in hopes of minimizing any chance of another fire.

Lilian Kim, CNN, Littleton, Colorado.

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