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Tooele County wildfire near Vernon grows to over 4,200 acres, roads remain closed

Posted at 1:23 PM, Sep 05, 2016
and last updated 2016-09-05 15:27:33-04

VERNON, Utah – The West Government Creek Fire has grown to 4,244 acres near Vernon, Utah, and is about 5-percent contained Monday.

Authorities said lightning sparked the fire Sept. 2, in the Uinta Wasatch-Cache National Forest.

Fire crews said the most active portion of the fire is on the northeast ridge.

Steep, rocky and inaccessible terrain at the northeast ridge has firefighters monitoring fire progression and making potential plans in case the fire moves down slope.

Smoke is expected to be visible in Vernon.

Road closures: Erickson Pass Road and Little Valley Road.

Fire officials said residents are urged to stay clear of the fire area and roads.

Current resources: 250 firefighters –  4 Hotshot crews, 3 Type 2 crews, 4 helicopters, 5 engines, 5 water tenders and 2 dozers.