UTAH, June 14, 2021 (Gephardt Daily) — Morning reports from Utah Fire Info show that some Utah wildfires have spread overnight, concerning news due to the triple-digit highs expected in what is predicted to be a record-breaking heat wave starting Monday.
Here are the Monday wildfire updates reported so far.
Pack Creek Fire
Utah’s Pack Creek Fire grew by 2,819 acres since Sunday, and now has covered 8,243 acres. Sunday’s acreage was 5,424.
Residents of the Blue Lake and Dark Canyon were ordered to evacuate Sunday night.
“The fire is currently 8,243 acres and 6% contained,” says a Monday morning update from Utah Fire Info.
“The significant spread of the Pack Creek Fire since Wednesday, June 9, is the result of drought conditions in the Manti-La Sal Mountains that haven’t been seen for at least 90 years. The combination of record heat, extremely dry fuels and steep, rugged terrain presents historic challenges for firefighters attempting to control the fire’s spread. More containment line was secured yesterday around Pack Creek, but containment remains at 6% due to growth in the fire perimeter.
The fire, which began June 9, was human caused, and has been attributed to an abandoned campfire.
- Anyone who may have information on potential suspects or the campfire incident that sparked the fire is asked to call a newly established tipline: 775-355-5337.
Bennion Fire
“The fire is now 7,724 acres.”
That’s an increase of 1,224 acres over Sunday, when acreage was 6,500.
The fire was first reported June 4, and has been classified as having a natural cause.
The fire is “Currently burning in steep, rugged, rocky terrain in timber, sage, mountain mahogany, pinyon pine and juniper, being pushed by winds and extremely dry conditions,” a UFI description says.
Bear Fire
“Favorable conditions allowed firefighters to get good work done overnight,” a Bear Fire update says.
“The fire burned actively all night, but all activity was internal to proposed containment lines. Fire crews also aided in response to several incidents along Highway 6 during their overnight shift. Drivers are reminded to stay focused, slow down, and use caution.
A Red Flag Warning remains in place for hot, dry conditions, and extremely low fuel moisture.
“Priorities today are to continue to construct containment lines above Helper and north of Spring Canyon Road. If conditions are favorable, this may include burning above the road. The second priority is to secure the fireline along Ford Ridge.”
The Bear Fire was most recently reported at 10,526 acres and 10% contained. The cause of the fire, which began June 8, is under investigation.
Mammoth Fire
“GOOD NEWS – The evacuation has been lifted and the Mammoth Highway is open for residents of Mammoth Creek and Tommy Creek to return home,” says a Monday morning update for Mammoth Fire.
“The Dixie National Forest would like to thank the hard work and professionalism of the Type 2 Great Basin Incident Management Team 5 – Incident Commander Sam Hicks while managing the Mammoth Fire.”
The fire, which started June 5, is now 93% contained, the update says.
