Smoke rises from trees surrounding log decks in the Donut Hole area on October 16, 2024. Photo: UWC National Forest

On Thursday morning officials reported the fire is 33,038 acres and 30% contained

FRANCIS, Utah – No significant fire activity was observed overnight on the Yellow Lake Fire, though occasional single-tree torching and smoke from heavy fuels are expected to continue within the fire perimeter.

Fire crews were pulled off the line yesterday afternoon as a storm system moved through the area, bringing minimal rainfall and hail to parts of the area that are burning. Today, scattered showers and possible thunderstorms are forecast for lower elevations, while 4 – 8″ of snow is expected from Wolf Creek Summit up to Bald Mountain Pass.

Crews will continue retrieving equipment such as pumps and hoses as weather conditions allow. They are also being warned about the risk of falling snags due to precipitation.

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A single tree burns west of Lightning Ridge in the Yellow Lake Fire on October 16, 2024. Photo: UWC National Forest

Operations have shifted from active suppression to rehabilitation efforts. Bulldozer lines are being improved with water bars to restore natural water flow, and handlines are being upgraded to support proper drainage. Crews are also checking culverts and water pathways on the southern perimeter to ensure they remain clear of debris.

Due to the reduced fire activity and incoming weather, crews will not work overnight on the fire on Thursday. Very cold temperatures are expected across the area throughout the weekend.

Officials reported residents may have noticed a burned fire vehicle being towed from the site yesterday. During a period of intense fire activity last week, a parked truck on the east side of the fire was engulfed by flames. Fortunately, no firefighters were nearby, and no injuries occurred.

The YMCA Camp at Mill Hollow on October 16, 2024. Photo: UWC National Forest

Community meetings to discuss transitioning the fire back to local forest management are scheduled for this weekend. The first will take place on Saturday at 4:00 p.m. in Kamas, and the second will be held on Sunday at 4:00 p.m. in Tabiona. Additional details will be shared as they become available.

All evacuation orders and closures remain in effect.

Firefighters work to protect cabins: On Wednesday, firefighters set up structure protection measures on many cabins and homes near the west side of North Fork Road as the fire slowly backed down the mountain west of North Fork River. This involved creating space around these sites, deploying water pumps and sprinklers, and removing flammable materials in an effort to shield the properties, officials said.