Yellow Lake Fire doubles in size to nearly 8K acres amid ‘challenging red flag conditions’

Update, 1:51 p.m.:

HEBER, Utah ( ABC4 ) — A mandatory evacuation order has been placed for the West and North Fork of the Duchesne River.

“ALL must evacuate as directed by local officials. Campers in Grandaddy Lakes area of Ashley National Forest are now in READY status—prepare to evacuate,” Utah Fire Info posted on social media Saturday afternoon.

No further information is available at this time.

Original Story:

HEBER, Utah ( ABC4 ) — Friday proved to be a challenging day for firefighters battling the Yellow Lake Fire, according to Utah Fire Info. Fire conditions have caused the acreage of the blaze to grow to around 7,800 acres, officials said.

“Yesterday was a particularly challenging day, with red flag conditions that are prime for fire growth,” a press release from the Forest Service states. “High winds, record-breaking temperatures, extremely low humidity, and unseasonably dry weather.”

Firefighters reportedly worked to reduce the fire’s impact where possible, but the safety of personnel and the public remained first priority. Everyone stayed safe through the day, officials said.

In terms of fire growth, multiple wind-driven spot fires ignited north of Highway 35 and the pipeline. The fire “took advantage” of available fuels and favorable winds, officials said, causing it to spot and burn.

The fire reportedly spread toward Soapstone Pass and east toward Rhodes Canyon. It is now burning south, parallel to Highway 150 (Mirror Lake Highway), though it is reportedly not currently impacting that area.

The Yellow Lake Fire is now estimated at 7,798 acres. The acreage estimate will continue to adjust with updated infrared mapping, officials said.

“Today’s forecast brings another day of strong winds and shifting directions,” Saturday’s press release states. “Crews will continue their full suppression efforts, focusing on minimizing fire movement into the West Fork of the Duchesne drainage, north into Soapstone Basin, west toward Mill Hollow, and east towards the North Fork of the Duchesne.”

Firefighters are also working to protect structures in the area. Fire crews are prioritizing keeping the fire in a manageable area “where suppression efforts can be most effective,” the release states.

A forest closure is in effect for both areas of the Uinta-Wasatch-Cache and Ashley National Forests affected by the fire. A Red Flag Warning is in effect amid “unpredictable weather and unseasonably dangerous conditions.”

The Yellow Lake Fire has been determined to be human-caused. The wildfire remains under investigation at this time.

Over 400 fire personnel are currently assigned to this incident.

No further information is currently available.

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