Smoke from the lightning-caused Slough Canyon Fire is visible in the Uintah Basin. According to the August 20th Utah Fire Info update, the Slough Canyon Fire started on Saturday, August 15th in a remote area of the Book Cliffs on Uintah and Ouray Tribal Lands. “Initial attack response to the fire included two helicopters and two engines. Due to the steep and rugged terrain firefighters have not been able to directly engage the fire on the ground. Water drops from helicopters have not been successful in slowing fire spread. The fire is burning in heavy mixed-conifer stands within steep canyon drainages. This is a full suppression fire prioritizing firefighter safety by confining the fire using natural barriers and indirect fireline where it is safe for resources to engage.” The fire was mapped at 315 acres on Thursday at noon but spread to an estimated 536 acres by 8pm on Thursday. As of the August 20th report, the fire remained 0% contained. There are no anticipated road closures or area closures at this time.
Photo Cred: Utah Fire Info