BEAVER, Utah (KUTV) — The Cottonwood Fire quickly grew to an estimated 59,600 acres in Beaver and Piute counties, with zero percent containment, according to Utah fire officials.
Crews described the fire as “very active and exhibiting extreme fire behavior,” fueled by high temperatures, gusty winds, and extremely dry conditions.
“Please stay alert, stay out of the area, and keep an eye on official updates,” Utah Fire Info said in a statement.
One video, captured by a ring camera, courtesy of Dr. Marc Leduc, showed the moment a cabin in the burn area was caught in the fast-moving flames. The video starts clearly, before flames and smoke quickly fill the area.
Utah Fire Info said multiple interagency Hotshot crews, as well as heavy equipment, large air tankers, and other fire resources were “heavily engaged” in defending structures in the area. The fire is reportedly threatening more than 300 homes, as well as utilities and infrastructure.
Mandatory evacuation orders remain in place for Eagle Point Resort, Merchant Valley, HiLo Estates and Arrowhead Summer Homes. There are currently no evacuations in place for Piute County, but residents in Junction and Circleville were placed in a “READY” status for evacuation. Residents were also encouraged to sign up for the Everbridge mass alert system to stay up-to-date on the latest information.
A larger Great Basin Incident Management Team took command of the fire Tuesday evening and the Federal Emergency Management Agency authorized the use of federal funds to help cover the costs of fighting the fire.
“We extend gratitude to the local crews and all responding resources for their ongoing tireless efforts and work to protect the community under grueling conditions,” Utah Fire Info said.
The exact cause of the fire remains under investigation; however, fire officials have determined the fire to be human-caused.
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