Monroe Canyon Fire increases 10,000 acres overnight, Red Flag Warning in place

RICHFIELD, Utah (ABC4) — The Monroe Canyon Fire burning in Sevier County experienced significant growth Friday afternoon and evening, growing by 10,000 acres to a total of 20,870 acres, according to an incident update on Saturday. A Red Flag Warning is in effect over the weekend as fire weather conditions remain critical.

Temperatures rising and winds are increasing, officials said. Highs in the mid 80s are expected to be coupled with low relative humidity, causing extreme fire activity.

Evacuation notices were issued on Friday for all residences within the current closure area, including Magleby, Monroe Meadows, Cove Mountain, Elk Country Cabins, Long Flat, Big Lake, and the Porters area.

“The fire made an estimated five-mile run north yesterday. The fire advanced into the Magleby area and crossed Indian Peak to the east and Glenwood Mountain to the north,” Saturday’s update states. “Firefighters observed 60+ mph gusts. For safety reasons, firefighters were forced to withdraw from locations where they had been implementing structural protection efforts.”

Crews will be looking for spot fires today, July 26, as they have been reportedly forming from half a mile to five miles ahead of the main fire. Crews are also assessing areas impacted by Friday night’s fire spread, mostly in the Long Flat area and Porter’s area.

Once safe for firefighters to enter, they will begin assessing the Magleby area.

The fuels within the surrounding area reportedly have the potential to rapidly increase fire growth and cause volatile fire activity. Heavy smoke has limited the availability of infrared mapping for accurate acreage data, officials said.

“The safety of our firefighters and the public remains our top priority. We want everyone to make it home safely,” Incident Commander Brett Waters said.