By Aidan Mortensen | KOAL News | Photo courtesy of the U.S. Forest Service

Progress continues in efforts to end the Black Canyon Fire, which, at the time of writing, is 36% contained and stands at 3,563 acres. Fire officials have also reiterated the importance of not entering closed areas, as it can divert resources from firefighting efforts.

“The fire continues to burn in high elevation stands of mixed fir with a significant component of dead and down trees. Hotter and drier weather is expected over the next several days and may increase fire activity,” warns a fire update from the U.S. Forest Service. “Over the weekend, wildland fire crews began cutting handline along the northwest corner of the fire, working toward Black Canyon. Progress made over the weekend has strengthened containment and contingency lines ahead of expected warmer weather.”

Throughout the weekend, crews experienced several operational interruptions as individuals entered closed-off areas. The USDA explained that when these closure areas are entered, aerial firefighting operations must be halted, and personnel redirected away from the fire.

“These repeated violations have directly interfered with firefighting operations. When people enter the closure area, firefighters and aircraft may have to halt fire operations,” said the organization.

Currently, six aircraft, 28 engines, 14 crews, four bulldozers and a total of 535 personnel are working the fire. This includes a new addition of two 21-person crews from Australia with specialized training. 

Crews conducting aerial reconnaissance over the fire using infrared readings have identified areas holding heat throughout the fire, meaning that “portions of the fire remain capable of smoldering and becoming active again. Air operations will focus on these areas, dropping water in areas that are inaccessible to crews due to dangerous or unfavorable terrain.”

With the continued progress made against the fire, the Emery County Sheriff’s Office has downgraded the evacuation status for the Reeder Subdivision from ‘Go’ to ‘Set’. “Please consider not moving your belongings back to your cabins at this point, keeping in mind that threat from the #blackcanyonfire is not completely gone,” reads a social media post from the ECSO.

The ‘Set’ status includes:

Monitor fire danger levels and weather conditions

• Ensure your go bag is prepared
• Check in on members of your household & neighbors
• You can always self-evacuate if you feel unsafe