Mesa Blaze Grows to 17,000 Acres

July 24 -- A massive wildfire in Colorado’s Mesa Verde National Park grew to 17,000 acres by Sunday night.

Hundreds of firefighters were battling the blaze, which began on Thursday — apparently caused by lightening — and was fanned by unpredictable winds and extremely dry weather.

The main attractions at the park, including ancient Indian ruins and cliff dwellings, have not yet been threatened and park service officers hope to contain the fire before it can reach any critical areas.