Little Twist Fire Update: Containment Progress And Aerial Ignitions Explained

The Little Twist Fire, currently burning 3,368 acres of steep and rugged terrain southeast of Beaver, Utah, is now 30% contained. Favorable weather conditions allowed firefighting crews to successfully implement aerial ignitions in the northwest area of the fire yesterday. This strategic move removed vegetation between previously constructed indirect lines and the active fire's edge, aiding in containment efforts. Weather patterns, including a north-northwest flow, have provided opportunities for firefighters to secure indirect handlines safely through these burnout operations.

Today’s planned actions involve continued firing operations to clean up additional interior pockets of unburned fuels. This effort is crucial for increasing containment. Smoke may continue to be visible for several weeks from surrounding areas, including I-15, I-70, Hwy-89, and Hwy-20.

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Safety for the public and fire personnel remains a top priority. Forest Road 137 (Kent's Lake Road) reopened today. Drivers are urged to use caution and minimize their time along the section of road between Upper Kent's Lake and LeBaron Campground to ensure the safety of ongoing suppression operations and fire crews working in the area.

An updated closure went into effect today, encompassing all National Forest System (NFS) lands within specified boundaries. The closed area includes land starting at the gate at LeBaron Campground on Forest Road 137, extending south to the Beaver County line, west to the intersection of Beaver, Iron, and Garfield Counties, and continuing to other specified landmarks. South Creek Road remains open, while areas north of Forest Road 68 are closed. The southern side of Forest Road 137 is also closed between gates, with Anderson Meadow Campground and Anderson Reservoir remaining closed. However, LeBaron Campground and LeBaron Reservoir are open to the public.

As the firefighting efforts continue, the dedication and hard work of the 259 personnel assigned to the Little Twist Fire are vital in working towards full containment and ensuring the safety of both the public and fire crews.