The Yellow Lake fire leads to a mandatory evacuation order

TIMBER LAKES, Utah – The Yellow Lake Fire has been burning since Sept. 28 and now covers 15,106 acres, one of the largest fires in the state this year. The fire, currently 7% contained, prompted mandatory evacuations on Sunday.

According to a news release from Utah Fire Info, the North and West Branches of the Duchesne River are under a mandatory evacuation order.

“This is a mandatory evacuation and all residents, hunters and recreationists must evacuate and stay away from the area,” the release said.

People were asked to be prepared and ready to evacuate in the event of evacuations in the Granddaddy Lakes area of ​​Ashley National Forest and in the Hannah community.

“Yesterday’s evacuations were orderly and we thank those who left immediately when we were asked to do so,” UFI said. “As a reminder, if you are asked to leave, please do so. These areas were found to pose an imminent danger. If you stay, you are endangering yourself and the first responders who will later have to help you leave.”

Related: Yellow Lake fire continues to rage, triggering new evacuation orders

UFI said crews worked Saturday to protect buildings in the area of ​​the fire.

“While the fire has engulfed Heart Lake and spread, it has remained largely on the ridge,” the news release said. “Crews are maintaining Mill Hollow Road and conducting fire operations when possible to reduce fuel consumption. Fire growth continues to be strong on the eastern and southern edges and is expected to continue. Most of the northern flank is still burning parallel to Highway 150.”

According to UFI, aircraft had limited ability to combat the fire due to 40 mph winds and poor visibility. These aircraft were capable of pouring water and fire retardant on the fire.

“Today, crews will continue to assess structures, conduct firefighting operations in favorable weather, and work toward stronger containment around the perimeter and flanks of the fire. There is no warning today, but temperatures remain above average and relative humidity below average,” UFI said. “The size of the fire is such that growth is expected, but with moderate conditions firefighters have a better chance of securing portions of the perimeter.”

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The Yellow Lake fire was determined to be human-caused