WILLIAMS, Ariz. (October 4, 2009)—A wildfire in northern Arizona has grown to about 1,000 acres and is threatening the city of Williams, known as the "Gateway to the Grand Canyon,” authorities said.

The fire began as a controlled burn aimed at ridding the forest of undergrowth and protecting Williams from wildfires.

A forest official credited air tankers with slowing the fire's spread, but she said strong winds continue to be a concern.

Sixty-four homes have been evacuated as a precaution.

Meanwhile, hand crews plan to spend the night making fire lines along the northeast side of the fire.