LOVELAND, Colo. (AP) - Crews battling a wildfire in the northern Colorado foothills say the wind may not be as bad as originally predicted, and residents may soon be able to go home for good.

Firefighters had expected sustained winds of up to 25 mph on Wednesday. A spokesman for the fire team says the latest forecast calls only for occasional strong gusts, and weaker winds overall.

Authorities say residents may be allowed to return to their homes as early as Wednesday afternoon. Some were escorted to their property Tuesday to get clothing and medicine, but they were escorted out the same day.

Investigators believe the fire was started by two residents burning leaves and other debris. Prosecutors haven't decided whether to file charges.