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Most of the crews battling the Parleys Canyon Fire will be released

Utahns who were evacuated are allowed to return to their homes.

(Rick Egan | The Salt Lake Tribune) Firefighters work on some hot spots on the fire in Parleys Canyon, on Sunday, Aug. 15, 2021. Most of the firefighters will be released on Wednesday.

Because of progress firefighters have made against the Parleys Canyon Fire — and a lot of help from the rain — most of the 200 firefighters working the blaze will be released on Wednesday, according to Utah Wildfire Info.

That comes hours after the thousands of Utahns forced to leave their homes because of the Parleys Canyon Fire were allowed to return.

Half an inch of rain fell on the fire on Tuesday evening, and rain continues in the area on Wednesday. And the strong, gusty winds did not, as feared, spread the flames.

As of Wednesday morning, the fire remained at an estimated 541 acres and was 40% contained. It’s burning through timber, brush and short grass.

Heavier fuels in the southeast part of the fire “continue to burn with a moderate potential to spread,” according to Utah Wildfire Info.

The estimated date for full containment of the fire is Sept. 1.