BEAVER COUNTY, Utah, June 28 (Wire Service) — The Cottonwood Fire has burned more than 90,000 acres in southern Utah since it ignited on June 22 in the Fishlake National Forest, forcing evacuations and damaging infrastructure in surrounding communities, fire officials said on Saturday.
Authorities said the fire spread rapidly under hot, dry and windy conditions in rugged terrain in Beaver County, about 200 miles (320 km) south of Salt Lake City.
Evacuation orders remain in effect for multiple areas near the fire zone, including communities and recreational areas around the Eagle Point ski resort, where officials reported structural damage. Several access roads in the region have been closed due to fire activity and downed power infrastructure.
Utah state officials said the Cottonwood Fire is among the largest active wildfires in the United States this season, as crews also battle additional fires elsewhere in the state, including the Iron Fire near Eureka.
Firefighting efforts have been challenged by strong winds, low humidity and steep terrain. Officials said aircraft operations have been intermittently grounded due to weather conditions and smoke.
Utah Governor Spencer Cox declared a state of emergency and announced restrictions on fireworks ahead of the July Fourth holiday, citing elevated wildfire risk across the state.
The National Weather Service has issued red flag warnings for parts of Utah, indicating conditions favorable for rapid fire spread.
No containment level was immediately available from fire authorities.
Smoke from the fires has affected air quality across parts of Utah and neighboring states.
The cause of the fire remains under investigation.
Wildfires are common in the Western United States during the summer months, but officials have warned that dry conditions and high temperatures can lead to rapid fire growth and increased risk to communities in the wildland-urban interface.
Fire crews continue to focus on protecting structures and slowing the fire’s advance as conditions allow. Further evacuations remain possible if the fire expands.
Authorities said damage assessments are ongoing.
