Containment drops for Monroe Fire as flames claim another 5,000 acres, now largest fire of the season

RICHFIELD, Utah (ABC4) — The Monroe Canyon Fire burning just south of Richfield in Sevier County has claimed another 5,000 acres, bringing the total burned to 36,637, according to the latest update provided by the Great Basin Complex Incident Management Team.

The fire has surpassed the France Canyon Fire to become the largest wildfire of the 2025 wildfire season in the state.

In the last 24 hours, firefighters lost about 5% containment on the flames that have been devastating the mountain between Koosharem and Monroe.

The Incident Management Team said high temperatures, single-digit humidities, strong gusty winds, and record-breaking low fuel moistures have caused a quick increase in fire activity.

“Timber stands saw crown-runs and tree torching into the evening. Due to the receptiveness of fuels, spot fires were frequent throughout the fire area,” the team reported.

Flying embers created spot fires across established dozer lines in Manning, Monroe Meadows, Dry Creek, Monroe Canyon and Water Canyon, but crews were able to quickly catch them and extinguish the flames before they could become bigger problems. Fire crews said the threat of spotting still remains an issue.

On Wednesday, crews will be monitoring the spread of the fire as it backs down the timber slopes into Bear Valley. The Great Basin Complex Incident Management said once the fire burns into more favorable and safer fuel types, crews will begin aggressively engaging with the fire.

As of July 30, 1,052 firefighters are working to contain the Monroe Canyon Fire, which the Incident Management Team described as a “full suppression fire” with an emphasis on protecting communities.

The cause of the fire remains under investigation.

Fire officials will be hosting another community meeting to provide public updates on the Monroe Canyon Fire on Wednesday, July 30 at 7:30 p.m. at the Sorensen Administration Building on the Snow College campus (800 W 200 Street). The meeting will also be available online to attend virtually for those who are unable to attend in person.