Rain falls on Thompson Ridge Fire, minimizing fire activity

BEAVER — The largest wildfire currently burning in the state has grown to over 7,000 acres, but fire crews said Thursday's storms helped minimize fire activity.

KSL meteorologist Matt Johnson said the heaviest rain in the area fell just north of the fire. However, as much as .66 inches fell on the fire, helping firefighters.

The Thompson Ridge Fire has burned 7,289 acres, mostly in Fishlake National Forest in Beaver, Garfield and Piute counties. It was 0% contained as of Friday morning.

State fire officials said firefighters on Friday plan to improve dozer and hand lines on the eastern flank of the fire. Along the northeastern edge, the fire is burning in the burn scar of an old Pole Creek Fire — not the 2018 Utah County fire with the same name.

Firefighters are using the burn scar to their advantage, as the previous fire burned away much of the dead and downed fuels in the area.

The fire was started on Aug. 4 by lightning. Four helicopters, six water tenders, five engines and six crews, with a total personnel of 199, have been assigned to the fire.

State fire officials added state Route 153 is not closed in the area.

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