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Crews continue to battle Tooele County wildfire; 45-percent contained

Posted at 5:36 PM, Sep 06, 2016
and last updated 2016-09-06 19:36:22-04
West Government Fire burning in Tooele County is at 4,244 acres and now 45-percent contained. Courtesy of the U.S. Forest Service

West Government Fire burning in Tooele County is at 4,244 acres and now 45-percent contained. Courtesy of the U.S. Forest Service

TOOELE COUNTY, Utah – Roads have reopened after a wildfire in Tooele County forced several closures over the weekend, authorities confirmed Tuesday.

The West Government Creek Fire has ravaged 4,244 acres and is now 42-percent contained. It is currently burning on the Spanish Fork Ranger District in the Uinta Wasatch-Cache National Forest, according to a press release from the U.S. Forest Service.

The lightning-caused blaze was ignited southwest of Vernon on Sept. 2. Several roads were closed and precautionary evacuations were issued for Vernon residents. Campers in the area were also ordered to evacuate over the weekend.

As of Tuesday, Erickson Road was open and no other closures are anticipated, the release states.

However, officials say the driving conditions are not ideal.

“The gravel roads are very dry and the extra traffic resulting from fire suppression activities has created a driving hazard,” the release states.

Officials ask the motorists to use caution while on these roads for the safety of the public and firefighters.

Currently, fire crews continue working to secure fire line, mop up and monitor flames in areas accessible to firefighters.

A single helicopter has been available for water drops throughout the day. There is minimal fire movement with the most active areas being on the northeast ridge.

More details will be provided as they become available.