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Two Duchesne County wildfires merge and threaten structures

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SALT LAKE CITY — Two wildfires burning in eastern Utah have merged, and multiple structures are threatened.

The two fires began Monday near the town of Myton, in eastern Duchesne County. They were both human-caused, according to Utah Wildfire Info, but the exact cause is under investigation.

The "East Myton Fire" forced evacuations in three tribal residences and one private residence, but those were lifted Monday night.

The second fire, called the "North River Fire," was sparked near the border of Duchesne and Uintah counties.

Fire officials said the combined fire -- later dubbed the "East Myton Complex Fire" -- had burned 2,200 acres as of Monday night and was 10 percent contained.

The fire was threatening 10 structures, as well as oil and power infrastructure.

This comes as the state of Utah enters another wildfire season under extreme drought conditions.

On March 17, Gov. Spencer Cox declared a state of emergency as most of the state is experiencing extreme drought. The order allows for state and federal resources to be used to help farms and communities that might be impacted by what is expected to be a long, hot summer.

The drought conditions could lengthen Utah's wildfire season this year and contribute to extreme wildfires.

Watch FOX 13 for updates.