Leeds and Harrisburg voluntarily evacuate houses after I-15 brush fire
Oct 29, 2023, 10:52 AM | Updated: 7:57 pm
(Hurricane Valley Fire and Rescue)
(Hurricane Valley Fire and Rescue)
LEEDS, Washington County — A brush fire near Interstate 15 caused an evacuation order to two cities in Washington County on Sunday morning.
At approximately 10:30 a.m., crews responded just outside of Leeds to prevent the flames from expanding.
Because of high winds, the flames jumped over the roadway causing other small spot fires. Due to heavy timber near homes in the area, a voluntary evacuation order was announced at approximately 10:55 a.m.
Mike Alexander with Utah Highway Patrol said northbound lanes on I-15 were facing closures. Cameras estimated the closures at approximately milepost 15.
“No word yet on how it started,” Alexander said.
No injuries or damaged homes have been reported.
According to a Facebook posting from the Hurricane Valley Fire District, the fire was 15 acres in size, and the cause is still under investigation. However, they did say it is suspected to have been human-caused.
Additionally, several power poles along the interstate were damaged. However, Rocky Mountain Power was able to respond quickly repair all the power poles and power lines.
Edit: This article was originally reported to KSL TV by dispatch with St. George that there was a mandatory evacuation order. It was since clarified by the Hurricane Valley Fire District that the evacuation order to surrounding homes was voluntary.
