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NCAR Fire forced evacuation of 8,000 homes in Boulder

The wildfire burned near the U.S. National Center for Atmospheric Research in Boulder.

BOULDER, Colo. — About 8,000 homes were ordered to evacuate due to a fast-moving wildfire burning in an open space near the U.S. National Center for Atmospheric Research (NCAR) in Boulder on Saturday afternoon. 

The Boulder Police Department (BPD) said wireless emergency alerts were sent to all cell phones in the affected area, which includes about 19,000 people. 

The NCAR Fire started at about 2 p.m. Saturday and was measured at 122 acres, with no containment as of 7 p.m.. No structures have been damaged.

As of Sunday at 9 a.m. on Sunday, the NCAR Fire is 21% contained.

RELATED: Boulder officials say NCAR Fire is now 21% contained

“We have evacuated two areas nearby, Table Mesa area on the eastern side of south Boulder and also Eldorado Canyon,” said Marya Washburn, spokesperson for Boulder Fire-Rescue.

Multiple aircraft routes have occurred over the fire, Washburn said. Winds were expected to subside over the area into the evening, as firefighters work to contain the fire. 

Boulder County Fairgrounds is accepting large animals at 9595 Nelson Road in Longmont. The Humane Society of Boulder Valley at 2323 55th Street in Boulder can accept smaller pets and companion animals for shelter and care.

The East Boulder Community Center at 5660 Sioux Drive is open as an evacuation point and overnight shelter. Evacuees are invited to go there for more information and resources, and household pets are welcome.

The cause of the fire is under investigation. The Boulder County Sheriff's Office is asking anyone who was on or near the trails south of NCAR around 2 p.m. or earlier and may have seen anything that could help with the investigation to call 720-564-2679 or email bcsotips@bouldercounty.org.

RELATED: Fire danger heightens; strong winds, low humidity around metro

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