Some Meeker residents are voluntarily evacuating due to the Lee and Elk Fires

MEEKER, Colo. — Some residents in Meeker have decided to voluntarily evacuate as two wildfires threaten the small town on Colorado's Western Slope.

Meeker, home to roughly 2,300 residents, is located near the White River and surrounded by public lands. The town is well known for outdoor activities.

On August 2, lightning started two fires: the Lee Fire and the Grease Fire. The two fires eventually merged, and the blaze is now known as the Lee Fire.

As of Wednesday evening, the Lee Fire is 45,000 acres in size and 0% contained. Fire officials said the blaze is threatening the area due to its extreme behavior.

Burning roughly 15 miles away is the Elk Fire, which has scorched roughly 14,250 acres. The fire was also sparked by lightning on August 2.

Mandi Etheridge, Meeker town administra