UTAH, July 16, 2024 (Gephardt Daily) — Utah wildfire officials have shared updates on several firefighting efforts around the state.
Speirs Fire
The Speirs Fire, near Dutch John in Daggett County, remains 0% contained, and is estimated at 759 acres.
“Monday’s activity was light due to cloud cover and afternoon showers,” says a statement issued by the U.S. Forest Service. “Fire growth did occur on the southern side of the fire, toward Greens Draw. As large fuels continue to burn, smoke may be noticeable in the area.
“Crews will continue to secure the north and west sides of the fire through direct measures, creating hand lines and extinguishing fire spots. The current reduced fire behavior may provide an opportunity to gain an additional foothold in suppression efforts.”
Tuesday’s conditions were expected to be similar, being mostly sunny in the morning with afternoon showers, lightning and gusty, erratic winds.
“There are currently no evacuations, closures of campgrounds or developing recreational sites or campfire restrictions in place. However, due to the proximity of the fire, future closure of the Greens draw area and some developed recreation sites is anticipated.”
Graff Point Fire
Suppression efforts in the Graff Point Fire, near Cedar City, “are yielding positive results, with crews making significant progress in constructing handlines,” says a Tuesday update issued by Utah Interagency Fire.
There was no acreage or containment estimate provided Tuesday. The last estimate, offered on Saturday, July 13, showed the fire at more than 543 acres and 0% containment, with 20 structures threatened.
“Current activities include mopping and cold trailing to ensure the fire remains within its established perimeter. Cold trailing involves firefighters carefully inspecting the burned area to ensure no hot spots or embers remain, often using their hand to feel for heat.”
Despite recent precipitation, the fuels remain dry, resulting in some interior creeping and torching, the statement says.
“Aircraft are being utilized as needed, specifically on the south side where the terrain is steep, to provide water drops in areas difficult to access by firefighters on the ground.”
A community meeting for people who live in the area will be held at 6:30 p.m. today at the Heritage Center Theatre, at 105 N. 100 East, Cedar City. A link offered for those who would like to view the meeting via Zoom is here.
Tangent Peak Fire
A Tuesday afternoon update of the Tangent Peak Fire, in Box Elder County, says the fire stands at 473 acres and 0% contained.
“It is on state, private and Bureau of Land Management Utah lands,” the Utah Fire Info post says.
“Two state crews will be working the fire along with local, state and cooperate on resources.”
