Containment of the Babylon Fire has reached 95%, prompting officials to lift evacuation restrictions for multiple zones in San Juan County. The wildfire, which has burned 107,189 acres within the Manti-Lasal National Forest, is nearing full containment as crews shift focus toward suppression repair and monitoring remote hotspots.
Evacuation restrictions lifted in San Juan County zones
On July 15, 2026, San Juan County announced that all areas previously under SET evacuation status had been downgraded to READY status. This change removed evacuation restrictions for several zones, including SJC-1, SJC-2, SJC-4, SJC-Dude Ranch, CY1, CY2, Peter's Hill West, Airport, and EnergyMonticello. Additionally, Monticello Area Zones MC-1, MC-3, MC and several others were returned to READY status.
Fire remains active in rugged terrain
Despite the reduction in evacuation orders, the fire remains active. According to an InciWeb update from July 16, 2026, while increased moisture has helped moderate fire behavior, the blaze continues to burn in heavy fuels and underground root systems. These areas are particularly difficult to access due to the remote, steep, and rugged terrain.
Suppression repair and drone monitoring
As reported by InciWeb on July 20, 2026, suppression repair operations are currently underway. Crews have been working on chipping, a process of converting wood debris from cut trees and limbs into chips to reduce dry fuels near containment lines. Firefighters also continue to use Unmanned Aircraft Systems (UAS) to provide real-time situational awareness and thermal imaging to identify hotspots in areas where crewed aircraft cannot safely fly.
Public land closures remain in effect
The Bureau of Land Management (BLM) Monticello Field Office previously issued an amended fire prevention order on July 16, 2026. Due to safety concerns and ongoing suppression efforts, certain BLM-managed lands remain closed to the public. These closures include areas west of Harts Draw Road and south of State Route 211, as well as portions of the Shay Mesa area, Beef Basin, Dark Canyon, and Sweet Alice.
Continued monitoring of fire activity
San Juan County officials have urged residents to continue monitoring official communication channels for updates. While the fire is significantly contained, the risk of new activity remains as crews manage remaining hot spots and monitor the landscape for further lightning-induced strikes.
