The Derby fire continued to grow into Saturday as officials extended road closures north of Dotsero.

Now at an estimated 4,111 acres, up nearly 600 from the day before, the fire started by lightning a week ago has drawn nearly 400 personnel working to mitigate its effects as it remains at 0% containment, according to a Saturday news release from Derby Fire Information.

Derby fire in Eagle County surpasses 3,000 acres charred as rain showers are forecast

Firefighters have constructed about three miles of dozer and hand lines along the fire’s southern perimeter as aircraft continue to drop water and flame retardant along the west flank, officials said Saturday.

A helicopter pilot helping mitigate the fire sustained only minor injuries after the craft he was flying ended up in a lake just after 4 p.m. Friday. 

Helicopter fighting Derby fire apparently ends up in lake

Crews have extended the Colorado River Road closure farther south to Red Dirt Road as winds continue to push the fire in that direction, according to the release. Despite the dry conditions, officials believe the chances of wetting rain will increase through next week.

The fire has prompted evacuation notices for residents of Sweetwater Road and Red Dirt Creek in northwest Eagle County, the release says. Other surrounding zones have been set to a pre-evacuation notice.

Daytime smoke and nighttime glows from the fire may be visible to those outside of evacuation areas, officials said Saturday.

More evacuation information, including shelter and resources for pets and livestock, can be found on Eagle County’s website. The Forest Service and Bureau of Land Management have also issued public closure areas in the vicinity of the fire. Additionally, anyone can receive more information by contacting 2025.derby@firenet.gov or calling 970-355-3283.