The Widemouth 2 Fire more than tripled in size in central Utah between August 1 and August 2, 2026. Driven by strong southerly winds, the fire grew from 4,168 hectares (10,300 acres) to 14,746 hectares (36,438 acres), forcing mandatory evacuations near Fillmore and expanding into southern Millard County and Sevier County.
Strong winds pushed the fire approximately 14 kilometers north along the Fishlake National Forest boundary. Utah Fire Info reported that the fire continued to grow after mapping, suggesting the active perimeter exceeded the published figures. The fire has crossed into Sevier County, with officials identifying the Rockwood area above Joseph as a location expected to be affected by the northeastward spread.
Evacuation orders were extended into Fillmore on August 2, covering the area from 500 South, east of Highway 99, extending south to 1600 South. Residents were told to leave immediately due to life-threatening and rapidly changing conditions. Approximately 25 homes were evacuated in Kanosh and Meadow, alongside residents of the Kanosh Band community and recreationists. The Paiute Indian Tribe of Utah declared a state of emergency for the Kanosh Band Reservation on August 2. A shelter has been made available at 45 West Center Street in Fillmore.
While no civilian injuries or destroyed structures were reported by the evening of August 2, the Millard County sheriff confirmed that more than 100 cattle have been killed. Two firefighters sustained minor injuries during the incident. Approximately 370 personnel are currently assigned to the fire.
The lightning-caused fire began on July 27 on the Fillmode Ranger District south of Kanosh. Due to the scale of the incident, FEMA has approved a Fire Management Assistance Grant to cover 75% of eligible state firefighting costs, such as mobilization, equipment, and supplies.
Road closures have been reported for Highway 91, Corn Creek near Kanosh, and roads east of 500 West near Meadow. Authorities have requested that motorists avoid unnecessary travel on Interstate 15 between Kanosh and Fillmore to keep roads clear for emergency vehicles. Fishlake National Forest has issued a closure order for roads, trails, and land affected by the fire, which is scheduled to remain in force until October 15 unless rescinded earlier.
