The Dinosaur fire burning on four acres of land in Boulder’s Flatirons — near the National Center for Atmospheric Research — was 35% contained Saturday, according to fire officials.
Despite the quick start Friday — with flames and spreading within minutes — the fire was slow-moving throughout the day and overnight, according to the Boulder Office of Disaster Management.
More than 75 firefighters responded to the fire on the second switchback of Mallory Cave Trail around 11:45 a.m. Friday, and two helicopters joined the fray to drop retardant and water on the flames, fire officials said.
Despite extreme heat and low humidity in the area, limited winds kept the fire from spreading too far or too fast, according to the National Weather Service.
No evacuation or pre-evacuation notices were issued Friday, but Boulder emergency officials issued an advisory for areas southwest of Boulder to “be aware of your surroundings at all times” and “begin making preparation plans.”
Boulder officials lifted the advisory around 8 a.m. Saturday, but trails in the NCAR area remained closed as firefighters worked to fully contain the blaze.
“Fire is 35% contained and fire officials expect to have it fully contained today,” Boulder emergency officials said. “Fire lines held overnight and 70+ firefighters will continue working today until the fire is out.”
