Rain Showers, Green Vegetation Help Crews Fighting “Alaska Fire” In Utah County
Jul 31, 2019, 6:25 PM
PROVO, Utah – About 150 firefighters are working to contain a wildfire burning in the mountains between Provo and Springville. The “Alaska Fire” is 10% contained and has burned 450 acres.
Kim Osborn, the public information officer for the firefighting operation, said the fire was called in around 10:30 Tuesday evening in the mountains above Alaska Avenue. Firefighters got on scene quickly to begin their work. Throughout the day Wednesday, helicopters and an air tanker made drops while ground crews did their work in steep, rocky terrain.
Osborn said several rain showers helped keep the fire from taking off. She said the amount of green vegetation in the upper elevations of the mountain will help slow the fire as well.
Because there was no lightning in the area Tuesday evening, fire investigators believe the fire was caused by people. People who live in the neighborhood below the fire were frustrated to hear that. Jessica Jo Jindra said the experience has made her think more about readiness.
“I think we need to be prepared and have clothes ready and probably do more safety, like all that wood we have right there, we probably need to move that and have a plan in place,” Jindra said.
