BOX ELDER COUNTY, Utah — Firefighting crews are working to extinguish three lightning-caused wildfires that have burned thousands of acres in Box Elder County.
The three wildfires are south and west of Park Valley.
The Matlin Fire is estimated to have burned 8,000 acres. According to Box Elder County officials, the fire burned destroyed two historic railroad trestle bridges along a historic railroad.
The Marlin Fire also threatened several structures, including three cabins and five trailers, but firefighting crews were able to save the structures.
The Peplin Fire, estimated at 1,000 acres, and the Hansel Fire, estimated at 700 acres, are not threatening any structures.
A fourth fire, called the Golden Spike Fire due to its proximity to the Golden Spike Historic Park, is already out. Box Elder County officials said a local farmer caused the two-acre fire by using a cutting torch while installing a gate.
The farmer used his tractor to help firefighters extinguish the wildfire, a news release from Box Elder County said.
Fire officials hope to have the other three fires contained before the end of the day. The area will be under a Red Flag Warning until at least 10 p.m. Friday, and possibly longer.
