The Forsyth Fire continues to wreak havoc in Pine Valley, with the number of homes consumed by the flames climbing to 17, based on the latest updates. The wildfire, which erupted northwest of St. George on June 19, has seen no respite as it has now engulfed a staggering 150,000 acres and remains completely uncontained. This grim update comes from the Washington County Sheriff's Department, according to FOX 13 Now.
On the frontlines, first responders have been toiling relentlessly. Sheriff Nate Brooksby, who spent a significant amount of time in Pine Valley on Friday, observed the firefighters' efforts to safeguard properties. Despite their tireless work, changing winds have complicated the situation, making containment efforts futile and leading to the destruction of several homes. "They lost structures. That is the worst of the worst in their world," Brooksby said, as per KUTV.
In response to the escalating wildfire danger, Rocky Mountain Power has implemented a Public Safety Power Shutoff across central and southern Utah. This preventive measure will persist until it's safe for crews to begin the process of inspecting and restoring power lines. Authorities have also reinforced the urgency for the Pine Valley community to abide by the evacuation orders in place.
As the fire advanced from the highlands to threaten more inhabited areas, mandatory evacuations were ordered. The infrastructure that is now under duress includes not only primary residences but secondary homes as well. Pine Valley residents, such as Kelly Cannon, found themselves in a rapidly deteriorating state of affairs shortly after the fire's inception. Firefighting resources have been bolstered, with the inclusion of 16 engines, two water tenders, and aerial units among others, as detailed by Gephardt Daily. Yet, the public is advised to steer clear of the area and to refrain from drone activity to prevent interference with critical aerial firefighting operations.
