One of the largest wildfires ever recorded in Colorado persisted Sunday and a new wildfire sparked in the southwestern corner of the state as gusty winds and low humidity fueled the flames.

Gov. Jared Polis has issued a verbal disaster declaration, freeing up state and federal resources for the 75-acre Oak Fire burning west of Pagosa Springs. Meanwhile, the Lee Fire has grown to one of the largest in state history.

A Colorado prison was evacuated as one of the largest wildfires in state history continued to grow, and officials warned residents of remote areas to be ready to leave Sunday as gusty winds and low humidity fed the flames.