Dry, hot conditions fuel several fires in Utah, Nevada
Several states could see additional wildfires this week due to hot and dry conditions.
Thousands of residents were forced out of their homes over the weekend after several fast-moving fires spread through parts of Utah and Nevada.
In Saratoga Spring, Utah, the Knolls Fire was first reported around 1 p.m. Monday, fanned by strong winds that prompted officials to call off air operations.
Officials ordered 13,000 people from 3,100 home to evacuate, representing about one-third of the Saratoga Springs population.
As of Monday morning, the Knolls fire was about 25 per cent contained, according to a tweet issued by Utah fire officials.
In a Sunday statement, Gov. Gary Herbert said most of the state was under a red flag fire warning due to high temperatures, strong winds, and dry conditions.
TRAVERSE FIRE STARTED BY FIREWORKS
On Saturday, the Traverse Fire erupted around Alpine, Utah, prompting the evacuation of 230 homes.
Officials later confirmed the blaze was started by fireworks.
Meanwhile, the Canal fire, which started Friday near Oak City broke through fire lines Sunday. About 300 residents in the community were evacuated.
On Monday, a sizeable portion of Arizona, Utah, Colorado, and New Mexico were on high alert due to hot and dry conditions.
VIDEO: WILDFIRES AND WEATHER
EVACUATIONS IN NEVADA
In neighbouring state Nevada, the Poeville Fire grew to more than 600 hectares Saturday, prompting the evacuation of 400 people.
As of Sunday night, the fire was 30 per cent contained.
Officials are investigating the cause.
Thumbnail image: File photo/Getty Images.
