ZION NATIONAL PARK — A fast-moving wildfire forced the closure the Kolob Canyons area of Zion National Park on Wednesday.

The fire was ignited Tuesday evening during a strong thunderstorm that passed through the area, said David Eaker, a fire specialist for the National Parks Service.

The fire, estimated at 200 acres as of late Wednesday evening, started on Black Ridge, about two miles east of I-15 and six miles south of the Kolob Canyons Visitor Center.

"The fire has the potential to quickly move through the park and threaten the safety of visitors," Eaker said. "Because of that, the Kolob Canyons Scenic Drive (Exit 40 on I-15), and all trails leading from it are closed to the public at the park visitor center gate."

The Hop Valley Trail along the Kolob Terrace Road is also closed due to the fire, and park rangers have begun to evacuate hikers on the LaVerkin Creek Trail, according to Eaker.

Firefighters were working on the fire throughout the day Wednesday and were expected to continue throughout the evening. The closure will remain in effect until it's safe to reopen, Eaker said.

— Ethan Thomas