Fire near Cedar City doubles in size, crews in full suppression efforts

CEDAR CITY, Utah ( ABC4 ) — The Graff Point Fire, which sparked just five miles south of Cedar City, has nearly doubled since it first sparked over the weekend, according to the Utah Fire Interagency.

The fire was first reported on Saturday, July 13. Crews said a lightning strike on private property caused the fire, while hot and windy conditions fueled the flames. By Saturday night, the flames reportedly stretched 260 acres.

In an update on Monday, July 15, the fire has now spread to over 540 acres and crews are in “full suppression efforts.”

“The fire is burning in steep and rugged terrain, requiring hand crews to secure the fire line,” Fire officials said in a statement. “Yesterday, hand crews anchored a handling at Hicks Creek and today, they will continue constructing the handline to the ridge.”

Officials said the hand crews are also progressing from the top of the fire, working to secure the fine line to the northeast side. The ground efforts have been supported by air resources.

Fire officials said the fire’s risk could be dangerously increased as the weather continues to take a turn in favor of the flames. Conditions include hot and dry temperatures with a potential for more thunderstorms and gusty winds.

About 20 structures have been threatened by the fire so far, prompting an evacuation of residents living in the area. Tipple Road and Kannara Mountain Road going over to Kolob Road have also been shut down, which officials said was for the safety of the public and firefighters.

Fire officials encouraged residents to listen to evacuation orders from the Iron County Sheriff’s Office and respect any measures law enforcement puts into place.

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