Some areas burned by the Monroe Canyon Fire at risk for flash floods

SALT LAKE CITY — The Monroe Canyon Fire reached 73,722 acres on Saturday as at least 541 personnel worked to get the fire to 90% containment.

In a news release provided by the U.S. Forest Service, fire officials said there’s an increased chance of flooding in some areas due to weather affecting areas already burned by the fire.

“Starting Sunday and continuing through mid-next week, storms are expected to become more widespread,” the forest service said. “This brings a higher chance of heavy rain and an increased risk of flash flooding. Burned over areas are especially vulnerable sites where flooding, debris flows, and road damage could occur.”

The news release stated that the Fishlake National Forest still has closures in place for the “general area north of Dry Creek Canyon Road,” due to fire danger.

“Allowing access back into the wildfire area requires careful steps to ensure it is safe for both the firefighters and the public,” the forest service said. “Do not return until authorities say it is safe to enter the closure area.”

According to the news release, firefighters are focusing on suppressing the fire and restoring areas affected by firefighters as they fight the fire.

“Suppression repair remains a priority, with work underway to restore dozer and hand lines to return the landscape to a more natural state and to reduce erosion,” the forest service said. “Crews are re-contouring and smoothing lines to blend with the terrain, and many will also be reseeded with native vegetation.”

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Some firefighters temporarily pulled due to lightning near the Monroe Canyon Fire