East Desolation Fire grows to 250 acres

The BIA said the East Desolation Fire grew to 250 acres and "will likely increase." Photo: BIA Forestry & Wildland Fire — Uintah and Ouray Agency

UINTAH AND OURAY INDIAN RESERVATION, Utah — The Bureau of Indian (BIA) Forestry and Wildland Fire agency based in the Uintah and Ouray Indian Reservation in northeastern Utah said the East Desolation Fire is currently 250 acres and “will likely increase.”

The blaze is located near the Moonwater and Hill Creeks.

The fire is believed to be lightning-caused.

“Fire activity continued last night and throughout the day today,” a BIA post said.

Currently, a type-1 helicopter along with 3 type-6 fire engines are working to slow the spread.

Single Engine Air Tankers (SEATs) dropped retardant on Wednesday morning in an effort to keep the fire in the canyons.

“Due to hot and dry conditions, containment efforts may be difficult,” the BIA post continues. “Resources are actively engaged in suppression efforts to minimize spread onto Moonwater.”