Utah Firefighters Stay Busy On Independence Day

Fire crews continue to battle two major wildfires in southern Utah this week, as hot, dry, and windy conditions increase the risk of extreme fire behavior during the holiday weekend.

The Forsyth Fire, burning near Pine Valley, has grown to 13,566 acres and is 46% contained. Firefighters have made progress on the north side, securing a containment line from the West Valley burn scar to the Saddle burn scar south of Pine Valley. Crews are also working around the Pine Valley Recreation Area, mopping up hot spots and expanding containment lines more than 100 feet into the burn area. Efforts around Oak Grove campground and the community of New Harmony continue, using methods like chipping dead vegetation to reduce fuel. Aircraft are supporting the operation with water bucket drops and equipment transport. Repair work is underway on dozer lines around the fire’s northern edge.

July 4 marks a particularly dangerous fire weather day, with a warming trend, very low humidity, and gusty southwest winds forecast to reach 35 mph on ridgetops. The drying conditions are expected to persist through the week.

Read More: Utah Home To One Of The Country's Most Dangerous Parks

France Canyon Fire Reaches 80% Containment

Meanwhile, the France Canyon Fire has reached 80% containment at 33,364 acres. Management of the fire transitioned to a local Type 3 Incident Management Team, though most resources remain in place to maintain operational continuity. Crews completed containment on the northwest perimeter between Johnson Canyon and Proctor Canyon. Work continues on the western edge, with ongoing mop-up and heat patrols. Seeding and repair operations, including mastication and dozer line restoration, are progressing across contained areas. Equipment is now being moved to the Blue Fly Creek area to assist with additional repairs.

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Due to continued fire activity and the presence of firefighting personnel and machinery, a Forest Closure remains in effect for both fire zones.