Utah Wildfire EXPLODES! Evacuations Ordered as Deer Creek Fire Rages
Deer Creek Fire Forces Evacuations in Southeastern Utah
A rapidly spreading wildfire, dubbed the Deer Creek Fire, has ignited near La Sal, Utah, prompting mandatory evacuations and road closures. The fire, which started Thursday, has already consumed over 4,000 acres, forcing officials to take immediate action to protect residents.
San Juan County authorities issued evacuation orders for residents located east of the fire, particularly those near Deer Creek Road. The La Sal community employee confirmed the alert, urging affected individuals to seek safety. The fire's potential to spread into Colorado is a growing concern, according to officials.
Initially, ten structures were threatened, and Old La Sal Road, along with State Route 46 south of the fire, are closed to all traffic until further notice. Air support has been requested to combat the blaze, highlighting the severity of the situation.
Evacuees seeking refuge from the heat are directed to the La Sal Community Center. The San Juan County Sheriff's Office emphasized public safety, urging individuals to avoid restricted areas and follow instructions from emergency personnel.
The fire, named the Deer Creek Fire, had grown to between 200 and 600 acres by early evening. It is burning on private land, and the cause was not immediately known. Critical fire weather conditions fueled the blaze, with the National Weather Service reporting wind gusts up to 35 mph and relative humidity levels as low as 6% across southeast Utah. A red flag warning for areas east of the Colorado River, including San Juan County, was in effect through Thursday.
The Utah Department of Transportation reported that Highway 46, also known as Old La Sal Road, is closed in all directions at milepost 14, about 3 miles east of La Sal, and advised motorists to use an alternate route. Emergency crews remain actively engaged, and evacuations are ongoing.
What to do if you're affected:
- Evacuate immediately if you are in the affected area.
- Go to the La Sal Community Center for shelter.
- Stay clear of restricted areas.
- Follow all instructions from emergency personnel.