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SALT LAKE CITY — Rain and cooler temperatures helped officials battle the largest blaze burning in Utah right now, though there are three other fires burning in the state as of Monday afternoon.
In all, the four fires have burned more than 15,000 acres throughout Utah. Bureau of Land Management officials said Monday that 269 of 295 wildland fires sparked this year have been human-caused.
Saul’s Canyon Fire ==================
Day started: May 14
Size: 200 acres
Containment: 0 percent
The fire, which was started by lightning, is located on Sanpitch Mountain west of Wales in Sanpete County. It flared up further again June 14, according to the Bureau of Land Management. The fire is being monitored by officials.
South Fork Fire
Day started: June 16
Size: 75 acres
Containment: 90 percent
The fire in Provo Canyon is the only of the current Utah wildfires that was determined to be human-caused. Utah Fire Info said 70 personnel have been dispatched to fight the fire, including two helicopters and three engines. The fire has South Fork Road closed.
Trail Mountain Fire ===================
Day started: June 4
Size: 13,860 acres
Containment: 40 percent
By far the largest fire currently burning in Utah, the Trail Mountain Fire began as a controlled burn and grew out of control after an unexpected thunderstorm came through the area on June 6. Utah Fire Info reports nearly 600 personnel using eight helicopters and 23 engines have reported to help fight the fire.
“A lot of ground has been made in fighting the fire,” said Jesse Bender, public information officer for the Bureau of Land Management. She said small amounts of rain, cooler temperatures and higher humidity over the weekend helped crews make that ground.
However, the forecast for hot and dry conditions once again over the week could thwart attempts at controlling the wildfire, Bender said.
“As it gets warmer and drier, we expect to see an increase in fire activity,” she said.
Bender added that although state Route 31 reopened in the area, motorists should still avoid it if possible as access to areas in the canyon is still closed.
[Willow Creek Fire
Day started: June 6
Size: 1,300 acres
Containment: 35 percent
Caused by lightning, the fire about 20 miles southeast of Heber is the only other fire currently burning in the state larger than 1,000 acres. More than 90 personnel have been dispatched to the fire, according to Utah Fire Info.
Officials added it is not threatening any structures or power lines. ](https://inciweb.nwcg.gov/incident/5837/)
