LA SAL, Utah (
ABC4) — About 250 people have been forced to evacuate their homes as the Deer Creek Fire near La Sal and the Utah-Colorado border in San Juan County continues its rapid spread.
Fire officials tell ABC4.com the flames have spread over 6,000 acres since Thursday night, July 10. The fire has so far destroyed two homes, two secondary homes, and five outbuildings, such as sheds, and some local power infrastructure.
(Images courtesy: Utah Fire Info)
Another 20 homes are being threatened by the fire, prompting the evacuation order as a safety precaution. The San Juan County Sheriff advised residents within five miles of the fire or Mountain Shadow Estates to evacuate. Those who have been displaced are advised to go to the Community Center at Highway 46 in La Sal.
Fire crews are continuing to strengthen containment lines along the ridgeline above Highway 46, using natural rock outcroppings and dozer lines to build firebreaks. Hot, dry and breezy conditions are expected to continue, impacting fire behavior.