More help for Bridge fire

Growth of the "Bridge fire" slowed Thursday, but more ground and air fire crews are expected to arrive at the site Friday to continue battling the flames.

Overcast skies and light wind Thursday slowed the growth of the fire, which is estimated to be burning 2,600 acres, but there are still hot spots that require full suppression and more ground support, David Eaker of the National Parks Service said.

"It has grown some but not like it has over the last few days," he said. "We're hoping we can get a pretty good handle on this over the next couple of days, but it's up to what Mother Nature does."

The lightning-caused fire began June 14, eight miles southwest of Bryce Canyon City. High winds and low humidity allowed the fire to spread rapidly in the first two days.

More than 100 firefighters are currently on the scene. Three helicopters are also helping in the efforts, with the possibly of an additional helicopter arriving Friday, Eaker said.

"We've got people there watching it, but unless it's causing a threat, we're letting the fire run its natural course in the environment," Eaker said.

Bryce Canyon Road is expected to remain closed to visitors Friday.

"We hope we can maybe get that thing open in the next few days but we're not going to put anyone in danger," Eaker said.

Fire managers continue to monitor a lightning-caused fire in the Lake Fork Canyon area and have decided to allow it run its natural course, a spokesperson for the Sanpete Ranger District said.

— Michael Gonda