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Two wildfires burning in Utah as state still under extreme drought conditions

by David Wells, KSTU-TV (Salt Lake City) |

e Info reports two wildfires are burning in Utah as the state enters another wildfire season under extreme drought conditions.

Both fires are burning near the town of Myton, in eastern Duchesne County.

The East Myton Fire has burned more than 200 acres and is 10 percent contained, officials said. The fire is threatening structures and has forced evacuations in three tribal and one private residence.

The North River Fire has burned 50-60 acres near the border of Duchesne and Uintah counties.

Utah Gov. Spencer Cox declared a state of emergency March 17 as most of the state is experiencing extreme drought. The order allows for state and federal resources to be used to help farms and communities that might be affected by what is expected to be a long, hot summer.

The drought conditions could lengthen Utah's wildfire season this year and contribute to extreme wildfires.