The Yellow Lake Fire covers more than 16,000 acres and evacuations remain in effect

Smoke from the fire will be heaviest in the morning hours, but as temperatures rise in the afternoon, conditions on the Wasatch Back should improve.

Health officials said sensitive groups should exercise caution or stay indoors if there is heavy smoke.

The human-caused fire, which started more than a week ago, is 10% contained.

Fire officials said reduced winds should provide relief after the fire grew rapidly over the weekend with strong winds and unseasonably warm and dry conditions.

Firefighters are fighting the fire using aerial firefighting equipment and may begin using bulldozers to create fire lines on the eastern edge of the fire.

Evacuation orders remain in effect for the north and west reaches of the Duchesne River.

The Granddaddy Lakes area of ​​the Ashley National Forest and the town of Hanna in Duchesne County are under a “standby” order, meaning residents should have their bags packed and be ready to leave on time.

Portions of the Uinta-Wasatch-Cache and Ashley National Forests affected by the fire are closed. Highway 35 will remain closed until fire activity subsides and the road can be cleared of debris.