SUMMIT COUNTY, Utah — All residents who were evacuated due to the Parleys Canyon Fire were allowed to return to their homes Tuesday night at 8 p.m.
Earlier Tuesday, it was expected that most evacuees would not be able to return until Thursday. However, state wildfire officials said the rain Tuesday evening helped firefighting efforts, and the fire is now 41 percent contained at 541 acres.
They had been away since Saturday afternoon shortly after the fire broke out. They had a chance to return briefly Sunday and collect important belongings they left behind.
Relieved to be home after being evacuated due to the #ParleysCanyonFire!
— 𝐁𝐫𝐢𝐚𝐧 𝐒𝐜𝐡𝐧𝐞𝐞 (@brian_schnee) August 18, 2021
Pam is a 31-year resident of Summit Park and is happy to be back home with her pup Missy tonight. pic.twitter.com/7kdwztpxZo
READ: Park City Schools delay first day of school due to Parleys Canyon wildfire
Fire officials said the fire's behavior was minimal Monday, which also allowed crews to increase containment. Thunderstorm warnings brought the possibility of increased wildfire danger Tuesday evening, but the rain ultimately helped the conditions instead.
🔥 Thanks to rain on the #ParleysCanyonFire, all residents will be allowed to return home after 8 PM! The fire is now 40% contained, still 541 acres. @UWCNF will also lift its area closure. See full incident information → https://t.co/MAJbRn7ysa https://t.co/OQ3pEww0C5
— Utah Fire Info (@UtahWildfire) August 18, 2021
The National Weather Service also issued a Flash Flood Watch for a large part of the state. The potential for an inch or more of rain is possible, meaning flash floods may occur.
INTERACTIVE RADAR: Track Utah storms with up-to-the-minute live radar
Eastbound traffic on Interstate 80 is down to just one lane, while westbound lanes are fully open.
