Update, 4:10 p.m.: The Paradise Creek fire burning near South Canyon is reported at about 20 acres, according to Glenwood Springs Fire Department Public Information Officer Mina Bolton.

Bolton said firefighters are working in steep terrain with difficult access, with Interstate 70 serving as the primary access point. Multiple mutual aid resources are responding, and the department’s resource needs were being met as of about 3:45 p.m., she said.

Two helicopters are currently en route to the fire, including a Type 1 helicopter from Durango and a nearby Type 3 helicopter, Bolton said. The helicopters have been approved to dip water from the Colorado River, and I-70 is expected to remain closed while bucket drops continue.

Colorado River Fire Rescue is assisting Glenwood Springs Fire Department with a Type 6 engine and about three tenders, according to Colorado River Fire Protection District Division Chief of Fire Prevention Orrin Moon.

Moon said the fire is burning uphill from the interstate, making access and suppression more difficult.

“It’s not an easy place to have a fire,” Moon said. “It’s all uphill and very manpower and aircraft intensive.”

The cause of the fire is not yet known. Moon said Glenwood Springs Fire Marshal Robin Pitt is on scene assisting, but a cause has not yet been determined.

Update, 3:25 p.m.: A fire in South Canyon near Glenwood Springs, dubbed the Paradise Creek Fire, is estimated at 15 to 20 acres in grass and brush, with high spread potential, and is currently making a run uphill, according to incident command. Aerial resources have been requested.

Update, 3:15 p.m.: Interstate 70 is closed at mile marker 112 near South Canyon in both directions. Colorado River Fire Rescue is on scene working with local firefighters.

Original, 3:05 p.m.: Westbound Interstate 70 is closed at mile marker 112 near South Canyon due to a fire, according to a Garfield County Emergency Communications Authority alert.

The Post Independent will continue to update this story.