GARFIELD COUNTY, Utah — Residents in some parts of southern Utah are advised that they could lose power for at least part of the day Wednesday as the France Canyon Fire continues to grow in size.
Officials reported Wednesday that the fire has burned more than 27,015 acres and is still only 15% contained.
The power outages were announced by Garkane Energy. The utility company says that the fire has grown closer to one of its major transmission lines. Due to that, the Forest Service is planning a controlled burn under the lane to protect the poles and conductors.
Garkane Power has notified customers that the outage will begin at 8:30 a.m. The power company says the fire hasn't damaged the line yet, but it's getting dangerously close.
Residents in Spry, Duck Creek and nearby mountain areas could be without power for up to eight hours.
Fortunately, for those in Bryce Canyon City, Mayor Shiloh Syrett said he's been told the interruptions should be about an hour.
"They recommend to do all you can, obviously, to keep your refrigerator shut as much as possible, to keep it cool, as long as you can," the mayor said. "Definitely charge your devices, and if you have any batteries, backups, to make sure they're charged. Also, generators, if you have those, make sure they're fueled up and ready to go."
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