By Iron County Today Staff, For Iron County Today
As firefighters continue battling the massive Cottonwood Fire east of Beaver, the National Weather Service has issued the first-ever “Particularly Dangerous Situation” (PDS) Red Flag Warning in the history of its Salt Lake City office, signaling that the wildfire threat has reached an unprecedented level. The rare designation warns of life-threatening fire behavior and is reserved for only the most extreme fire weather conditions.
The warning took effect Friday morning and covers much of southern and central Utah, including the Cottonwood Fire burn area. Forecasters cited a dangerous combination of wind gusts up to 50 mph, critically low humidity, extremely dry vegetation, and the presence of a large, active wildfire. Officials warned that both new and existing fires could spread rapidly, produce long-range spotting, and become nearly impossible to control under the expected conditions. Incident Meteorologist Jason Straub told residents that the Salt Lake City office “has never issued a PDS Red Flag Warning ever,” calling the situation “extremely concerning.”
The Cottonwood Fire, which started Monday in Beaver County, has now burned more than 71,000 acres and remains 0% contained, despite the efforts of more than 650 firefighters and numerous aircraft, engines, bulldozers, and hotshot crews. Fire officials say crews have made progress constructing firelines and protecting homes, but the combination of strong winds, critically low humidity, and active fire behavior has prevented them from securing enough of the fire’s perimeter to report any containment.
Among the hardest-hit areas is Eagle Point Resort, where much of the popular ski destination was destroyed as the fire swept through the Tushar Mountains. The Lower Lodge and several other resort buildings were lost, along with nearby cabins and condominiums. While no injuries have been reported at the resort, the damage is extensive, and officials say the area will remain closed as recovery efforts begin.
Gov. Spencer Cox has declared a state of emergency and temporarily restricted fireworks statewide through the Independence Day holiday, citing the extreme wildfire danger. State officials report that most of Utah’s wildfires this year have been human-caused and are urging residents to avoid activities that could spark additional fires during the current weather event.
The Cottonwood Fire is one of several large wildfires burning across Utah, but with record-breaking fire weather expected through the weekend, officials say public awareness and caution are more important than ever. Residents are encouraged to stay informed, follow evacuation orders if issued, and avoid any activities that could ignite new fires while the rare PDS warning remains in effect.