WASATCH COUNTY, Utah, Oct. 19, 2024 (Gephardt Daily) — The operation to fight the Yellow Lake Fire, now at 33,038 acres and 30% contained, is beginning to ramp down, says a U.S. Forest Service news release shared by Utah Fire Info.
“Wasatch and Duchesne County evacuation orders were lifted at 9 a.m.,” says an update issued Saturday.
“Personnel numbers on the Yellow Lake Fire continue to decline as operations ramp down. Six days ago, 889 personnel were on the fire. Today there are 433.
“Rain and snow fell yesterday with up to 1.23 inches of precipitation recorded. However, the fire managers say there is still some heat out there. Aircraft equipped with infrared technology flew the fire area last night and detected heat sources on the north side. Hot spots were also picked up along the North Fork of Duchesne, as well as a few in the ‘donut hole’ in the middle of the fire perimeter.”
As the weather warms today, smoke from smouldering heavy fuels, duff and leaf litter could show up, the statement says.
“An isolated snag torching would not be unexpected, however fire movement is not expected,” the news release says.
“Fire suppression has transitioned to repair of dozer lines, pump and hose removal, and hydrological improvements such as water bars.”
A burned area response team will come in next week to assess damage and recommend ways to mitigate changes to the landscape.
“Suppression repair is important for water quality, especially within adjacent watersheds. Meanwhile, fire crews are working with Local Forest Service Resources advisors to address immediate repair needs.”
A community meeting is set for 4 p.m. today, Saturday, at South Summit Middle School auditorium, in Kamas, “to discuss fire suppression, rehabilitation and what’s next.”
The fire, which started on Sept. 28, is believed to be human caused, but the investigation is ongoing.
