Francis Fire Update
Fruit Heights, Utah, September 17, 2019– The Francis fire, was reported on September 16, 2019, at approximately 1:45 pm, it has been determined to be lightning-caused. The fire is located east and north of Fruit Heights, Utah in Davis County and is approximately 365 acres with 10% containment. The imminent threat to homes has passed and evacuations have been lifted as of 10:00 pm last night. Forest users are advised that temporary closures will be in place for Bair Canyon, Adams Canyon and the Bonneville Shoreline Trail that runs along the southern perimeter of the fire between those two trailheads, please use caution and avoid the fire area, more information on the official closure order to come.
Crews have been actively engaged in full suppression since arrival on scene and will continue those efforts, with firefighter and public safety paramount. Predicted rain did help suppression efforts last night and this morning; however, gusty winds today could pose a potential hazard.
Fire activity is active, creeping and flanking, primarily upslope through grass, brush and patches of heavier fuels. The terrain is steep and rocky adding a beneficial natural fire break throughout the area. 4 helicopters dropped water, and 2 airtankers dropped retardant around the entire perimeter of the fire yesterday, while engines focused on structure protection of neighboring communities.
Hand crews are building containment lines along the northern, southern, and western flanks of the fire, with helicopter, support.
Resources:
3 engines
8 hand crews
4 helicopters
1 air attack plane
2 SEATS (single engine air tanker) available
1 LAT (large air tanker)