A wind-driven Colorado wildfire has spread across the rugged Colorado foothills, causing the evacuation of 1,000 people while destroying many homes.

No injuries have been reported in the blaze which started Monday morning in Four Mile Canyon northwest of Boulder.

Strong and gusty winds carried the flames through the dense bushland, setting fire to properties along the way.

Authorities have said they are not sure how many homes went in the fire, but some of them belonged to volunteers who were reacting to the emergency.

As the winds calmed on Monday afternoon, aerial tankers managed to retard most of the blaze, although some firefighters remained on the scene throughout the night.

Roads in the area have been closed and county health officials have advised residents to stay indoors and avoid the thick smoke which is still lingering.