ST. GEORGE — Fire crews and emergency responders are working to stop the spread of a wildfire that has shut down parts of Interstate 15.
UPDATE 1:25 P.M. — Hurricane Valley Fire and Rescue Captain Tyler Ames confirmed one northbound lane of Interstate 15 is open after being closed for more than two hours due to a fire.
“One lane still shut down but open, crews working on the side of the road,” Ames said.
UPDATE 12:30 P.M. — Rocky Mountain Power has reported 713 customers without power in the area with an expected restoration time of 3 p.m.
Hurricane Valley Fire and Rescue Captain Tyler Ames posted a video to social media at approximately 12:30 p.m., saying at least one lane of northbound I-15 “should be open soon.”
“The progression has stopped though,” Ames said. “Crews are still working on hot spots and flare-ups.”
Traffic on state Route 9 through Hurricane and LaVerkin continues to be heavy, so authorities are cautioning patience if traveling in the area.
The National Weather Service sent an alert warning residents of Washington County to expect northeast winds between 25 to 35 mph with, gusts up to 50 mph expected, from noon to 2 p.m.
According to Utah Department of Transportation Emergency Alerts, northbound I-15 is closed at milepost 16 due to a wildfire.
The fire reportedly began at 10:03 a.m. As the fire continued to spread, the alert system stated that northbound I-15, at milepost 22, in Leeds was also affected. The estimated clearance time is estimated to be 6 p.m.
This is an active fire. Travelers should use an alternate route and expect delays. Harrisburg is currently being evacuated and Leeds residents are being warned to prepare for the possibility.
This report is based on statements from UDOT and may not contain the full scope of findings. St. George News will update this report as more information is released by authorities.
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