Babylon Fire reaches 11-percent containment with round-the-clock crews working on the 101,073 acre fire

Fire crews celebrate an 11-percent containment on the perimeter of the Babylon Fire while also recognizing a lot of work ahead in efforts to battle the wildfire now 101,073 acres in size.
Additional crew are on scene with 1,353 personnel made up of 34 crews including 68 engines, 22 helicopters, 21 water tenders and four dozers.
Recent growth on the fire has largely occurred within “unburned windows” in the fire interior rather than through major perimeter expansion.
The 11-percent containment milestone serves as a vital “anchor” for the crew with Public Information Officer Chip Favor telling the Red Rock Morning show on 92.7 FM that the surge in staffing has allowed for a two-prong approach on the fire.
While indirect lines remain a primary strategy to protect the communities of Monticello and Blanding crews have also begun launching direct attacks on the fire line in the northeast and southwest sectors.
The containment lines are currently established on the northern perimeter. On the active front hot shot crews are engaging directly at Shay Ridge, navigating steep terrain and fuel-drive winds.
Crews are also happy to report night shifts are in effect to increase efforts.
In addition to the 22 helicopters that are engaging the fire some fixed-wing scoopers have been essential to compliment on the ground efforts.
Fire behavior remains volatile with the unstable atmosphere containing the potential to generate another large pyrocumulus cloud over the smoke column on Wednesday.
No evacuation orders have been given with most residents in the “Ready” status, however six zones to the north and west of Monticello are in “Set” status including SJC1, Energy, Airport 1, Peter’s Hill West, CY1 and CY2.
SJC1 is the roughly 600 acres of private land in the National Forest that is immediately east of the Blue Mountain Ski Area.
Energy is the area near the Latigo Wind Farm.
Airport is from the Monticello Airport heading west toward Spring Creek.
Peter’s Hill West is the area west of Highway 191 along Peters Hill.
CY1 and CY2 is Dry Valley from Church Rock headed west towards Canyonlands and the Marie Ogden / home of truth area.
All areas within or adjacent to the City of Monticello remain in Ready status.
“Ready” status meaning residents should review emergency plans, gather important documents, medications and essential items. Ensure vehicles are fueled and stay informed.
San Juan County officials state that a SET Status means conditions have changed, and residents within these designated zones should be prepared to leave if conditions worsen. This is NOT an evacuation order, but it is time to take action to prepare.
Residents in a "SET" status should: gather important documents, medications and essential supplies, prepare your family, pets and livestock for a possible evacuation, ensure your vehicle is fueled and ready to leave, and continue to monitor official sources for updates. A “GO” status means it is time to leave.