Shivwits Fire Largely Contained, Afternoon Winds Pose Concerns

ivins fire
Photo by Ron Olroyd

Ivins Fire
Photo by Ron Olroyd

IVINS – The huge fire, which began around 2 p.m. June 10, on Shivwits Indian Reservation, is now mostly contained, reported Detective Nate Abbott of the Washington County Sherriff’s Department.  Abbott received an assessment from one of the lieutenants on scene this morning who indicates the biggest concern is heavy winds forecast for this afternoon.

“We’re kind of in a holding pattern until then,” Abbott said.

County Road Old 91 and Gunlock Road remain closed. Abbot said the officials in charge are hopeful that the roads will reopen this evening – but it depends upon how the afternoon weather and wind impact the fire containment.

Abbott confirmed that residents evacuated were able to return to their homes last night and  are able to continue life.

No further details have been released with regard to the two individuals believed to be responsible for starting the fire (using a cutting torch to cut metal).

ivins fire
Photo by Ron Olroyd

No new estimates of acreage consumed have been given Abbott.  Last estimate was 1,100 acres, as St. George News reported yesterday evening.  Firefighters were able to avert the threat of the fire reaching the communities of Kayenta and Ivins.

Abbot said no homes have been damaged and he is unaware of any injuries to persons.

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Copyright St. George News, SaintGeorgeUtah.com LLC, 2011, all rights reserved.

 

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