Firefighters Gaining Ground On Graff Point And Silver King Fires

Graff Point Fire Update: Progress in Containment and Recovery Efforts

The Graff Point fire has seen significant progress, with containment now at 85% and no growth reported in the past 24 hours. A dedicated team of 302 personnel continues to manage the incident, working tirelessly to ensure the safety and security of the affected areas.

Fire behavior remains minimal, characterized by smoldering and creeping. Crews and engines are engaged in mopping up and "cold trailing," a technique where they feel for heat by hand. Recent infrared flights have shown no significant pockets of heat, further indicating the fire's reduced activity. However, areas of unburned fuel within the interior could still emit smoke in the afternoons. Chipping operations are ongoing along the containment lines.

A significant transition is set for Saturday at 6 a.m., when command of the incident will transfer to the Utah Division of Natural Resources. Two helicopters will remain on site to support ongoing efforts, and hose lays will stay in place. Additionally, repair and rehabilitation work has begun to stabilize soils and prevent erosion in some areas. Contained lines are still being patrolled and monitored.

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Evacuations and road closures are scheduled to be lifted on Saturday, July 20, at 6 a.m. Unless there is a notable increase in fire activity, Utah Fire Info does not plan to issue further updates on this fire.

Silver King Fire Update: Continued Containment Efforts

The Silver King fire near Marysvale has grown to 18,189 acres and is now 78% contained. Hand crews have successfully brought the fire down to the creek and road in the Deer Creek drainage, securing the fire's edge. The eastern portion of the fire has been suppressed, and firefighters are now focusing on securing the area between Indian Hollow and Deer Creek. Pumps, hoses, and portable water tanks have been removed from the Miners Park area.

Suppression repair efforts are ongoing in the southeast portion of the fire. Excavators and a masticator are being used to repair dozer lines, aiming to mitigate the adverse impacts of fire suppression activities. The goals of these repairs include minimizing erosion and erosion potential associated with control line structures, reducing slash created during fire line development, and returning roads and trails to as close to their pre-fire conditions as possible.

Monsoon moisture and increased humidity have provided a beneficial boost to firefighting efforts, aiding in the containment and suppression of the fire.