Utah Wildfire Season Hits Extreme Levels Early

Southern Utah declares rare ‘particularly dangerous’ wildfire warning as Cottonwood Fire grows amid extreme early-season conditions

Southern Utah officials have issued a rare "particularly dangerous" wildfire warning as the Cottonwood Fire, already burning since June 24, expands rapidly under extreme dry conditions and high winds. Utah’s Division of Emergency Management confirmed the warning on June 26, with the fire now covering over 12,000 acres near Cedar City and threatening nearby communities. The National Weather Service has forecasted red flag warnings for the region through June 27, citing gusts up to 40 mph and humidity levels as low as 8%.

The Cottonwood Fire, one of several large blazes in the state this month, has forced evacuations in the area, including parts of the Markagunt Plateau and Pine Valley. Utah Governor Spencer Cox declared a state of emergency on June 25, activating the Utah National Guard to assist with containment efforts. "This fire is moving faster than we anticipated," said Utah Fire Marshal Derek Maes, adding that crews are battling "unprecedented" dryness for this early in the season.

Why is this fire so dangerous?
Utah’s wildfire season typically peaks in July and August, but this year’s drought—with snowpack levels 60% below average—has created conditions more severe than usual. The U.S. Drought Monitor classifies 95% of Utah as experiencing "severe" or "exceptional" drought. "We’re seeing fire behavior we don’t normally see until late summer," said Mike Staley, a meteorologist with the National Weather Service in Salt Lake City. "The combination of wind, low humidity, and dry fuels is creating a perfect storm."

Evacuations and road closures
Authorities have ordered mandatory evacuations for several areas, including parts of Pine Valley and the Markagunt Plateau. Utah Highway Patrol has closed sections of State Route 14 and other roads near the fire’s perimeter. Residents in Cedar City and nearby towns have been advised to prepare for possible power outages and limited cell service. "We’re asking everyone to stay alert and follow evacuation orders immediately," said Cedar City Mayor Scott McCoy.

How are crews responding?
Over 500 firefighters, including personnel from Arizona and Idaho, are deployed to the scene. The Utah National Guard has mobilized helicopters and ground support teams. Despite these efforts, fire behavior remains unpredictable. "We’re in a holding pattern right now, focusing on protecting structures and lives," said Maes. Officials warn that containment could take days, depending on weather conditions.

What happens next?
The National Weather Service expects critical fire weather conditions to persist through June 27, with little relief in sight. Utah’s Governor Cox has requested additional federal resources, including air support from the U.S. Forest Service. Residents in the affected areas are urged to monitor local alerts and prepare for possible extended evacuations. The Utah Division of Emergency Management has set up an information hotline at 1-800-4UTAH-FIRE for updates.

For those affected, the American Red Cross has opened shelters in Cedar City and St. George. Donations and volunteer firefighters are still needed. The situation remains fluid, with officials stressing the need for caution as the fire continues to expand.