Utah’s Yellow Lake Fire reaches 100% containment

Yellow Lake Fire smoke. Photo: Kirsten Kohlwey

Forest officials warn that hazards persist within the burn area. Fire-weakened trees and hidden hot ash pits continue to pose significant safety risks, prompting authorities to maintain forest closure orders in both affected national forests.

HEBER CITY, Utah — The Yellow Lake Fire in northern Utah reached full containment Thursday following weeks of firefighting efforts aided by recent precipitation, the U.S. Forest Service Uinta-Wasatch-Cache National Forest announced.

The fire, which burned 33,041 acres across the Uinta-Wasatch-Cache and Ashley National Forests, required extensive resources and coordination between multiple agencies to contain.

Despite achieving 100% containment, forest officials warn that hazards persist within the burn area. Fire-weakened trees and hidden hot ash pits continue to pose significant safety risks, prompting authorities to maintain forest closure orders in both affected national forests.

“These closures are necessary to protect the public from unpredictable hazards that remain, even as the visible flames have subsided,” forest officials said in a statement.

The Uinta-Wasatch-Cache National Forest closure order will remain in effect until November 25, while the Ashley National Forest closure extends through December 31 unless rescinded earlier.

Local fire resources continue to patrol the area, monitoring for hot spots and hazard trees. Residents needing to access property within the closure area can request permits through the Heber-Kamas Ranger District.