New Delhi, Aug. 11 -- Colorado is grappling with one of its largest wildfires on record as more than 1,000 firefighters work to contain the Lee Fire, which is raging about 250 miles (400km) west of Denver.

The blaze, sparked by lightning on 2 August, has scorched over 130,000 acres (52,610 hectares) and is only 7% contained, according to the state's Division of Fire Prevention and Control.

Evacuation orders have been issued for mountain communities in Garfield and Rio Blanco counties. Officials continue to urge residents in nearby areas to stay prepared to evacuate quickly if necessary.

Governor Jared Polis has declared a disaster emergency to help bolster firefighting resources.

On Saturday, all 179 inmates at the Rifle Correctional ...