Officials ask public not to report smoke unless they see new fire
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EVANSTON — A pair of wildfires burning in the Uinta Mountains northeast of Kamas, Utah, have been impacting travel on Highway 150. Although not nearly as large as wildfires that are forcing evacuations and road closures in Utah County, firefighters still ask the public to be mindful to avoid hampering firefighting efforts.
The Cobblerest Fire was reported on Saturday, Sept. 15 between Highway 150 and Alexander Lake, 19 miles northeast of Kamas. As of Thursday, Sept. 20, this fire had burned 100 acres and was 100 percent contained. A press release said smoke will continue to be visible from spots along the Mirror Lake Highway and surrounding areas.
The Slate Fire was reported on Aug. 23 about 6 miles northeast of Kamas and just over 3 miles north of Hwy. 150. As of Sept. 20, the fire had burned 386 acres with increased fire activity noted. Forest Service and firefighting personnel were concerned about shifting winds and hot, dry weather conditions leading to further fire growth.
Smoke from the Slate Fire may also be visible from Highway 150, as well as Highway 40, especially around the Slate Creek and Yellow Pine areas. A forest service press release asks motorists not to report this smoke and stay away from firefighting operations.
Helicopters are being used as needed in an effort to prevent the Slate Fire from spreading to the drainage of the South Fork. There is a temporary flight restriction in place in the area.
While the Slate Fire was caused by lightning, the cause of the Cobblerest Fire has not been determined.