As of late June 2026, Utah is battling an intense wildfire season with multiple large blazes burning across the state. The most significant is the Cottonwood Fire in Beaver County’s Fishlake National Forest, which ignited on June 22 and has rapidly expanded to approximately 59,000–61,000 acres with 0% containment. High temperatures, gusty winds, and extremely dry fuels have driven its explosive growth.
The fire has prompted mandatory evacuations of homes and campgrounds, closed State Route 153, and threatened structures including at Eagle Point Ski Resort. Hundreds of firefighters, hotshot crews, dozers, and air tankers are working to protect over 300 homes.
Utah has seen hundreds of fires so far in 2026, with the Cottonwood Fire among several larger active incidents (others include the Iron Fire, Hastings Fire, and more). The season started early due to record warmth and below-average snowfall.
No clean air Colorado
Smoke from the Cottonwood Fire and other Utah (and some Nevada) blazes has drifted eastward, significantly degrading air quality across western and parts of central Colorado. An Air Quality Health Advisory for Wildfire Smoke remains in effect for numerous western counties including Rio Blanco, Garfield, Eagle, Pitkin, Mesa, Delta, Gunnison, Montrose, and others as of June 24.
Residents are experiencing hazy skies, reduced visibility, and elevated fine particulate matter (PM2.5) levels. This poses health risks, especially for sensitive groups (children, elderly, those with respiratory or heart conditions). In-state fires like the Dry Creek Fire in Garfield County are adding to local smoke impacts.
Health Tips During Smoke Events
Stay indoors when possible, especially during peak smoke hours. Use HEPA air purifiers or keep windows closed.Limit outdoor exertion. Monitor the Colorado Air Quality website or apps for real-time AQI updates. Conditions may improve with potential showers, but the overall fire risk remains elevated.
Small Guide: Maintaining Your Property to Prevent Wildfires in Dry Colorado Summers
Colorado’s dry, windy summers combined with drought and expanding wildland-urban interface make property maintenance crucial. The Colorado State Forest Service and other experts emphasize creating defensible space around homes and hardening structures against embers. Here’s a practical, prioritized guide:
1. Immediate Zone (0–5 feet from home) – Highest Priority
Remove all dead vegetation, pine needles, leaves, mulch, and debris from foundations, under decks, porches, and attachments. Keep this area clear or use non-combustible materials (gravel, stone, concrete). Trim or remove flammable plants close to the house.
2. Defensible Space (5–30 feet)
Mow grasses to 3–4 inches and keep them watered/low. Prune tree branches to 6–10 feet above ground (or 1/3 of tree height) and space trees/shrubs to prevent fire spread. Remove ladder fuels (low branches connecting to trees). Move firewood, propane tanks, and other flammables at least 30 feet away (preferably uphill).
3. Home Hardening
Roof & Gutters: Clear debris regularly. Use Class A fire-rated roofing if replacing. Vents & Openings: Screen eaves, attic, foundation, and chimney vents with 1/8-inch metal mesh. Windows & Siding: Consider multi-pane tempered glass; create 6 inches of vertical clearance between ground and siding. Decks/Porches: Use non-combustible or fire-resistant materials; clear underneath
4. Ongoing Maintenance & Habits
Rake roofs/gutters frequently, especially after wind or dry periods. Ensure address signs are visible for emergency responders. Check local fire bans before any outdoor burning or campfires. Use existing fire rings, keep fires small, and fully extinguish (“drown, stir, drown, feel”). Avoid spark-producing equipment (mowers, chainsaws) on hot, windy, dry days. Maintain an evacuation plan and “go-bag.”
Additional resources: Colorado State Forest Service (CSFS), Ready for Wildfire, and local fire districts offer free assessments and chipping programs in many areas.
Acting now can dramatically reduce risk even if a wildfire never reaches your property, these steps protect against wind-blown embers, the primary cause of home ignitions.
Stay safe, monitor official sources like Utah Fire Info, InciWeb, and Colorado’s smoke outlook, and consider supporting firefighters during this challenging season. With proactive steps, Coloradans can enjoy summer while minimizing wildfire threats.
Christ still rains.