The Rock Canyon 2 Fire in Sevier County was declared 100% contained on Saturday, August 22, 2026, just hours after it was discovered on the face of Cove Mountain. The fire, located in the Richfield Ranger District of the Fishlake National Forest, was secured through helicopter suppression operations, according to Utah Fire Info.
Containment of Rock Canyon 2 Fire
The fire was identified on the face of Cove Mountain, east of Annabella, within the Richfield Ranger District. Utah Fire Info reported that helicopter crews successfully conducted suppression operations to secure the perimeter of the blaze, leading to the full containment announcement by 5:39 p.m. on August 22, 2026.
Ongoing Fire Restrictions
The discovery of the Rock Canyon 2 Fire follows a period of heightened fire danger in the region. The Fishlake National Forest has been under Stage 2 fire restrictions since June 26, 2026. Under these restrictions, the Forest Service prohibits igniting or using campfires or stoves, except for gas or liquid-fueled devices used in cleared areas.
Additionally, the order prohibits operating internal combustion engines, such as chainsaws or generators, for tasks like woodcutting or road building between 10:00 a.m. and 10:00 p.m. The restrictions, issued by Forest Supervisor Michael T. Elson, also prohibit smoking except in enclosed vehicles or buildings and forbid the use of any pyrotechnic devices or fireworks.
Previous Forest Incidents
The recent fire activity adds to previous incidents in the area. The Cottonwood fire, which began on June 22, 2026, on the Beaver Ranger District near Cottonwood Campground, remains an active ongoing incident. Additionally, the Widemouth 2 fire started on July 27, 2026, on the Fillmore Ranger District south of Kanosh.
The Cottonwood fire has resulted in the closure of SR-153 in both directions between mileposts 2 and 25. An official closure order is in place for the area, and officials have advised the public to avoid Beaver Mountain and all routes leading to the fire perimeter for safety.
Weather and Storm Risks
Weather patterns continue to present risks for new fire starts. The National Weather Service Salt Lake City forecast indicates that monsoon moisture may persist through the weekend and into early next week. This moisture could bring a daily threat of showers and thunderstorms, primarily during the afternoon and early evening.
Any storms that develop could produce heavy rain, frequent lightning, and gusty thunderstorm winds. These conditions, combined with hot and dry weather, can increase the risk of wildfires across the Intermountain West.
Forest Safety Protocols
The Fishlake National Forest maintains strict fire prevention protocols, including the requirement for engines to be equipped with properly installed and maintained spark arresting devices. Stage 2 fire restrictions in the forest are scheduled to remain in effect through October 31, 2026, unless rescinded earlier.
Information Resources
For information regarding active incidents, the Forest Service recommends monitoring the Fishlake Facebook page, the Utah Fire Info Facebook page, or the Fishlake X account. The Richfield Interagency Fire Center provides dispatch services for the region.
