The fire in the mountains east of Centerville is now 76% contained, according to the U.S. Forest Service, and fire managers “feel good” about the progress being made, according to a news release.
The Deuel Creek Fire ignited on Sunday night, prompting the precautionary evacuation of 89 homes. Residents were allowed to return to their homes early Monday, and — as of Tuesday morning — no structures were threatened.
(Utah Fire Info) The Deuel Creek Fire continues to burn east of Centerville.
The fire had burned about 129 acres as of Tuesday. According to officials, there was “little growth” to the fire perimeter Monday “despite high temperatures, low humidity and dry vegetation.”
However, the steep, rugged terrain is proving difficult for firefighting efforts, and unstable trees pose a safety hazard. “Crews will continue in full suppression efforts, with an emphasis on preventing any structure or infrastructure loss,” the Forest Service said.
Parrish Creek trail is closed from the Bonneville Shoreline trail east to the Great Western Trail as fire suppression efforts continue.
A total of 169 personnel were fighting the fire Tuesday, including three helicopter units, four engines, two hotshot crews and two hand crews.
Although authorities suspect fireworks may have ignited the fire, they are still working to determine the exact cause. Anyone with information about or footage of the fire from Sunday evening may call the Centerville Police Department at 801-292-8441.
Firefighters ask that the public stay away from the area of the blaze to avoid impeding fire crews and to keep drones out of the area so that the helicopters can fly there.
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