The Twelve Fire in western Moffat County near Elk Springs reached approximately 4,287 acres as of Thursday afternoon, according to a statement from the Moffat County Sheriff’s Office. There is no estimated containment.

Around 4:30 p.m. Wednesday, U.S. Highway 40 was closed in both directions between mile markers 60 and 11 due to the fire.

At midnight Thursday, U.S. 40 was reopened in both directions. Speed reductions were established due to the ongoing fire. Officials urge drivers to use caution.

Dry, hot and windy weather conditions continued to feed the fire Thursday afternoon, said the statement. The fire was estimated to cover about 1,000 acres Thursday morning, then spread over 3,000 acres between 8 a.m. and 1 p.m. Thursday.

The National Weather Service issued a Red Flag Warning for much of western Colorado, including Moffat, Routt and Rio Blanco counties Thursday morning. The warning will extend until at least 8 p.m. Thursday.

An Air Quality Health Advisory was also issued for Moffat County, with the air quality index considered moderate at 65, as of around 2 p.m. Thursday. The advisory extends until at least 9 a.m. Friday.

The Moffat County Sheriff’s Office reminds drivers to stay alert and take appropriate safety measures, such as driving slowly, securing towing chains and equipment to prevent sparks, refraining from throwing items out of a vehicle and reporting dragging chains to law enforcement.

This story will be updated as more information becomes available.