Single Publication

The Yellow Lake Fire has been mapped at 2,474 acres and 0% contained. The fire remained active throughout shift yesterday, though cooler temperatures overnight saw moderated fire activity. It continues to burn in heavy timber, both standing and dead-and-downed. Lack of moisture in the area this summer, as well as unseasonably late heat waves this fall, have caused the fuels to be highly receptive to fire, making suppression efforts dangerous and difficult.  

Fire managers are inserting ground crews where access is available and safe. The fire was active on the north side, and firefighters utilized air support and fire retardant to slow the progression. However, with the current heat and dry fuels, the fire is slowly burning through the retardant lines.

Crews are doing structure protection at the YMCA camp and near the gas pipeline, using bulldozer line and increasing the fuel break previously created to assist in holding the fire. Other values, including structures and communities not immediately affected by the fire, are being assessed proactively in case of further growth from the fire.  

This remains a full suppression fire, but with the current conditions it will likely be a longer duration fire due to the terrain, topography, receptive fuels, and predicted weather. 

Fire managers are working with their cooperators and respective county and local agencies to coordinate impact on grazing allotments, logging, and other permittee concerns. They are also working with law enforcement to escort recreationists to retrieve their belongings in the campgrounds and in the closure area.

Highway 35 remains closed, for both public and firefighter safety. This closure will remain for at least 24-72 hours, until fire activity decreases and the road can be cleared of debris. 

The fire has been determined to be human caused, but it is still under investigation. More information will be released once the final investigation report has been finalized. 

The Yellow Lake Fire is located east of Mill Hollow Reservoir on the Uinta-Wasatch-Cache National Forest. Currently, there are 230 personnel assigned to the fire, including ground crews, aircraft, engines, water tenders, and bulldozers.