Widemouth 2 Fire Doubles In Size And Reaches Above Meadow Overnight
The Widemouth 2 Fire in central Utah grew explosively overnight, forcing additional evacuations, threatening communities, and prompting a major increase in firefighting resources as crews worked Sunday to protect lives and property.
Fire officials said the blaze was last officially mapped Saturday at 10,300 acres, but heavy smoke prevented aircraft from obtaining an updated perimeter. The Northern Utah Type 3 Incident Management Team estimates the fire has at least doubled in size, although a more accurate acreage will depend on aerial reconnaissance. As a result of the rapid growth, containment has dropped to 0 percent.
Fire Advancing On The Eastern And Northern Edges
Driven by strong winds and gusty conditions, the lightning-caused wildfire remained highly active throughout the night. The flames jumped Kanosh Canyon during the evening and advanced roughly nine miles north, largely following the eastern edge of the forest boundary. By daybreak, the fire had reached the area above the town of Meadow and continued pushing toward Fillmore. The fire is now established in the Pine Creek area and continues to spread north.
Additional engines, air support, hand crews and other firefighting resources have been ordered. Officials said the highest priority is protecting lives, with firefighters working alongside the Millard County Sheriff's Office to assist with evacuations and safeguard critical infrastructure. Crews are also scouting areas ahead of the fire to identify locations where fuel breaks and other barriers could help slow its advance.
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Firefighters reported more favorable conditions on the south side of the fire, where crews continue to strengthen containment lines. A handline constructed on the western flank has also remained secure.
Approximately 25 homes have been evacuated in Kanosh, Meadow and on the Kanosh Band of Paiute lands. Law enforcement officers continue notifying residents and evacuating recreationists from Forest Service lands above Meadow and Fillmore. Highway 91, Corn Creek near Kanosh, and areas east of 500 West in Meadow remain closed.
Forecasters expect another day of red flag weather, with hot, dry and windy conditions likely to challenge firefighting efforts. The Widemouth 2 Fire was sparked by lightning on July 27 in the Fillmore Ranger District of Fishlake National Forest, about six miles south of Kanosh. Officials warn that the situation remains highly dynamic as the fire continues to spread.
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