UPDATED: Yellow Lake Fire spreads to 15,891 acres, residents prepare to evacuate

The Yellow Lake Fire has more than tripled in size and now covers 15,106 acres, with only 7% of the area contained. Photo: US Forest Service Uinta-Wasatch-Cache National Forest

The fire has more than tripled in size and now covers 15,891 acres, with containment at just 7%. 459 people are working on the fire.

Updated at 7:30 p.m.: More detailed infrared measurements showed the Yellow Lake Fire's updated growth numbers to be 15,891 acres with 7% containment. 459 emergency services are working on the fire.

FRANCIS, Utah – The Yellow Lake Fire broke out yesterday, fueled by wind gusts of up to 40 miles per hour and low humidity. The fire has more than tripled in size and now covers 15,106 acres, with containment at just 7%. 471 people are working on the fire.

Authorities issued mandatory evacuation orders for the North and West Branches of the Duchesne River, asking all residents, hunters and recreationists to leave the area immediately. The Granddaddy Lakes area in Ashley National Forest and Hanna has been placed on a READY alert and residents have been advised to prepare for possible evacuations.

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Firefighters continued to protect buildings and worked to reduce fuel consumption through controlled burns. Crews were able to hold Mill Hollow Road but faced challenges along the eastern and southern edges, where the fire is expected to continue to grow. Aircraft were used to drop water and retarding agents, but were limited by windy conditions and poor visibility.

Fire officials emphasized that people in evacuation zones should immediately comply with regulations to ensure their safety and that of first responders. Despite the moderate weather today, the fire remains a significant threat and is expected to continue to grow.

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