A FIRE raged at the Grand Bear Resort in Utica on Memorial Day with much of the vacation villas destroyed by the flames.
Dramatic photos show the fire engulfing cabins and villas as emergency crews descended on the area at 5.30pm local time.
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A crane was brought in to help contain the flames as firefighters worked to prevent them from spreading to nearby homes.
The Utica Fire Department told the local ABC News affiliate that 10 structures were on fire and evacuations were underway.
The president of the station owners association later told Fox News affiliate KLJB that at least 20 units were damaged after five buildings, each containing four residential units, were hit.
The cabins are privately owned and separate from the lodge area of the resort.
“As you may be aware, a fire has broken out at a handful of cabins and villas adjacent to the Grand Bear Resort,” resort management said on social media.
“Everyone on the property has been safely evacuated and the fire is currently under control. At this time, the lodge, water park and the majority of chalets and villas on site have not been affected.”
The station is scheduled to provide updates on Tuesday.
The cause of the fire has not been revealed. No injuries were reported.
Smoke could be seen billowing for miles as crews battled the blaze.
WMBD Chief Meteorologist Chris Yates reported that the smoke was showing on Chicago’s weather radar.
Weather conditions are believed to be affecting the ability of firefighters to contain the blaze.
The Grand Bear Lodge is located in Utica near Starved Rock in rural Illinois.
In addition to guesthouses, the resort offers chalets and villas.
Vacation Villas have two floors and Deluxe Cabins have three.
The resort’s website stated that many of the rooms had recently been renovated.
In addition to rooms, cabins, and villas, the resort features a 24,000 square foot indoor water park, arcade, fitness center, and multiple restaurants.
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