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SUMMIT COUNTY, Utah (ABC4) — The Yellow Lake Fire, which has been burning in the Uinta-Wasatch-Cache National Forest for about four weeks, has surpassed 50% containment — and coming winter weather is expected to have an impact on the wildfire’s containment, according to officials.
On Sunday, Oct. 27, the U.S. Forest Service said in a press release that the blaze had remained at a size of 33,041 acres, but containment had increased since Saturday (from 45% to 51%).
“The incoming snowstorm will not be a season-ending event but will help gain containment,” officials said Sunday.
The fire perimeter along Iron Mine Road, which is along the north half of the fire, is where most of the fire is still uncontained, officials said. Crews are still working to “seek and drown hot spots and fall hazardous trees.”
There was also still fire activity along the North Fork of the Duchesne, which officials said is “a reminder of how unseasonable the weather has been.”
“The fire is not out, and there is still a significant amount of heat in this area,” the Forest Service said. “Continued fire activity, along with fire weakened trees, and hot ash pits, are some of the reasons the forest closures remain in effect.”
Crews were expected to continue working to extinguish hot spots and repairing damage caused by the wildfire and suppression efforts.
As of Oct. 27, 244 personnel were assigned to the fire. Officials have said the Yellow Lake Fire was human-caused, but the investigation is still ongoing.
Forest closures in the Uinta-Wasatch-Cache National Forest were reduced as of Oct. 18, but are expected to remain in effect until Nov. 25 or until rescinded. Related closures in the Ashley National Forest will remain in place until Dec. 31 or otherwise rescinded.
Those who want to access property within the closure areas — such as to retrieve items or livestock, or to winterize any buildings — have been asked to contact the liaison officer at 2024.yellowlake.liaison@firenet.gov.