By Iron County Today Staff, For Iron County Today
Firefighters continue making progress on the Sawmill Fire burning near Steamboat Mountain north of Beryl, though the wildfire remains active and has burned more than 3,000 acres.
The fire was first reported on June 17 and grew rapidly due to dry fuels, low humidity, and windy conditions. According to Watch Duty, the blaze has reached approximately 3,790 acres as crews worked to establish containment lines around the perimeter, which is reported to be about 50% contented.
As a precaution, the Iron County Sheriff’s Office ordered the evacuation of several cabins and yurts in the area shortly after the fire began. No homes have been reported lost, and firefighters have focused on protecting nearby structures while strengthening containment lines around the fire.
Residents throughout Iron County, particularly in western and northern portions of the county, may continue to see smoke from the fire. Fire managers have cautioned that changing weather conditions, including gusty winds and possible thunderstorms, could affect fire behavior and create challenges for firefighters.
While the Sawmill Fire remains the largest active wildfire in Iron County, it is one of several significant fires burning across Utah during an unusually active start to the 2026 fire season.
The largest is the Iron Fire burning near the town of Eureka in Juab County. That fire has grown to more than 30,000 acres and prompted the evacuation of the entire community of Eureka over the weekend. Hundreds of firefighters continue working to protect homes and infrastructure as dry conditions, gusty winds, and low humidity challenge suppression efforts. Officials report that no primary structures have been lost despite the rapid growth of the fire.
With hot temperatures, dry vegetation, and continued fire danger across southern Utah, officials are reminding residents to follow Stage 1 fire restrictions and avoid activities that could ignite new wildfires. Fire managers will continue monitoring both incidents and provide updates as conditions change.