Lofgreen residents were allowed to return home on Monday after spending the weekend away due to the rapidly burning Cherry Fire. An evacuation order had been issued on Friday following the start of both the Cherry Fire and the Maple Fire in nearby areas.
The two fires eventually combined and spread over approximately 15,000 acres. By Monday morning, crews reported that the Cherry Fire had reached 21% containment while spreading over 34,000 acres.
Utah fire officials stated that firefighters utilized more favorable weather conditions over the weekend. According to the Great Basin Incident Management Team 3, crews used a more direct approach along the northern flank of the Cherry Fire to prevent further progression.
Residents returning to Lofgreen are encouraged to remain prepared for another evacuation order if fire conditions change. Officials noted that Highway 36 remained closed from Tintic Junction to just west of Bursh Creek.
