Six forest fires are currently raging in Utah, including above the University of Utah in Salt Lake City.Image: keystone
June 24, 2026, 10:56 amJune 24, 2026, 10:56 am
A forest fire in the US state of Utah has spread to around 12,500 hectares. According to information from the Utah Fire Department, the “Cottonwood” fire, which has been raging since Monday, has not been contained.
The fire affects an area of 125 square kilometers – so large that an entire city could be accommodated in it. Authorities have ordered the evacuation of homes and campsites and closed the highway in the mountainous area, US broadcaster ABC reports. The area near the town of Beaver is a popular vacation destination.
Very low humidity, dry fuel and the currently dormant vegetation are promoting the spread of the fire in the area, which is characterized by highly flammable conifers, reports local station KUTV. Six other forest fires are currently active in Utah and have already covered an area of around 38,000 hectares. (nil/sda/dpa)