MILLCREEK, Utah — Multiple brush fires were sparked off Interstate 80 in the Salt Lake City/Millcreek area at the I-215 interchange Monday evening, threatening some nearby homes and impacting traffic near the mouth of Parleys Canyon.
The fires were first reported at about 5:15 p.m. Within a couple of hours, firefighters on the ground and from the air had stopped its growth. As of Monday night, it was still smoldering and firefighters remained on scene to mop up hotspots.
Its size was estimated at 15 acres, and the cause is under investigation.
Unified Fire Authority responded, and Salt Lake City Fire Department assisted. UFA officials said homes were threatened as the fire moved southeast due to swirling winds, and crews worked to keep the flames from reaching those homes.
The ramp from eastbound I-80 to southbound I-215 was closed due to the fires, along with southbound Foothill Drive to I-215. Officials expect the ramps to be reopened before about 10 p.m.
Tanner Park has also been closed to the public.
Video via Olivia Glascock:
Just three weeks ago, a brush fire broke out near the same area in the vicinity of Parleys Historic Nature Park.
UFA spokesperson Nate Cochran said the burn scar from the previous fire actually helped their firefighting efforts. The network of trails also helped slow the spread, acting as small fire breaks.
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