Single Publication

Yellow Lake Fire 
Incident Update October 17, 2024

Size at time of update: 33,038
Containment: 30%
Personnel: 779
Start: Saturday, September 28, 2024
Cause: Human Caused (Under Investigation)
Location: 10 miles southeast of Francis, Utah

No reportable fire behavior occurred overnight on the Yellow Lake Fire.  Occasional single tree torching and other heavy fuel smoke is expected to continue within the fire perimeter. 

Fire crews were pulled off the line yesterday afternoon as a storm system passed through.  Minimal rainfall and hail were reported over portions of the fire area.  Scattered showers and possible thunderstorm activity are expected today at lower elevations. Snow is predicted at elevations ranging from Wolf Creek Summit up to Bald Mountain Pass. 

As weather permits, crews will continue to back haul equipment such as pumps and hoses.  They are cautioned to be aware of falling snag potential due to precipitation.  

Operational tactics have primarily shifted from direct suppression to rehabilitation.  Dozer lines are being groomed and upgraded with water bars to restore natural water flow.  Handlines are also being improved to support proper drainage.  Crews are ensuring existing culverts and water pathways on the south end of the fire perimeter are free and clear of obstructions.  

Crews will not be on the line tonight due to decreased fire activity and incoming weather. Very cold temperatures are predicted throughout the weekend. 

Area residents may have noticed a burned fire vehicle being towed from the fire area yesterday.  Last week, during very active fire behavior, a parked truck was engulfed by flames on the east side of the fire.  Firefighters were not in the immediate vicinity of the truck at the time, and no one was injured. 

Community meetings are scheduled on Saturday at 4:00 p.m. in Kamas and on Sunday at 4:00 p.m. in Tabiona to discuss transitioning the fire back to local Forests.  Additional details will be announced. 

All evacuation orders and closures remain in effect.  

Forest Closures:  

• Updated October 11, 2024, a closure has been increased on the Uinta-Wasatch-Cache National Forest due to the Yellow Lake Fire. This Order shall remain in effect until October 31, 2024, unless rescinded. 
  https://www.fs.usda.gov/Internet/FSE_DOCUMENTS/fseprd1208350.pdf 

• Updated October 11, 2024, a closure has been increased on the Ashley National Forest due to the Yellow Lake Fire. This closure will remain in place through December 31, 2024, or until rescinded, for public safety. 

Evacuation Areas: The North and West Forks of the Duchesne River, and Granddaddy Lakes area are under a mandatory GO evacuation meaning all residents, hunters, and recreationists must leave and stay out of the area. Hanna is under a SET order, advising residents to have bags packed and be prepared to evacuate if necessary.  

For updated evacuation zones, please visit:  

https://emergency-management-operations-wasatch.hub.arcgis.com/ 

https://tricountyemergencyalert.genasys.com/portal/en 

https://www.fs.usda.gov/Internet/FSE_DOCUMENTS/fseprd1208878.pdf