WASHINGTON COUNTY, Utah — A wildfire that broke out Sunday afternoon has grown to 200 acres, and investigators have determined it was caused by an unattended campfire.
It was started near the Oak Grove Campground, which has been evacuated. State wildfire officials have named it the Oak Grove Fire.
The fire is burning about nine miles northwest of Leeds. Officials say it is experiencing "active fire behavior" with "increased complexity." Wildland firefighters are working to contain and suppress the blaze, including crews on the ground, four small air tankers, three helicopters and seven smokejumpers.
A fairly large smoke plume from the fire was visible from I-15, as well as towns in the area.
PHOTO GALLERY: Wildfire in southern Utah visible from I-15 and nearby residents
"This is an important reminder that despite recent rains, fire potential still exists," Utah Wildfire Info tweeted. "Always drown, stir, feel, & repeat until your campfire is cold to the touch."
Fire crews are on scene of a brush fire west of Silver Reef (outside of Leeds, Utah).
— 𝐁𝐫𝐢𝐚𝐧 𝐒𝐜𝐡𝐧𝐞𝐞 (@brian_schnee) August 29, 2021
Smoke is visible from I-15 (via @UDOTTRAFFIC camera) & also seen from Hurricane in the 1st photo. #FireSeason pic.twitter.com/JZRqNWr6Bo
