The Cottonwood Fire in the Fishlake National Forest has reached 90% containment as heavy rains across the fire area significantly aided firefighting efforts, according to a July 17, 2026, update.
Increased humidity has reduced fire activity by making small diameter grasses and brush less prone to ignition. The fire currently covers 97,464 acres.
Firefighters are currently focused on patrolling areas near Eagle Point, LeBaron, and Arrowhead. Hand crews and heavy equipment have started repairing containment lines across the fire area, a process expected to be completed in the coming weeks if weather conditions remain favorable.
On the east side of the fire, crews have made progress with chipping operations and hazard tree felling. Additionally, firefighters are using Unmanned Aerial Systems (UAS) near Cork Ridge to assess containment lines for remaining heat. As containment increases, some personnel from the Cottonwood Fire are being reassigned to higher priority incidents.
Certain areas within the fire perimeter received measurable rain in excess of one-half inch per hour, and a pattern of monsoonal moisture is expected to continue through next week.
Safety remains the top priority, and the Beaver County Sheriff’s Office continues to restrict access for property owners and the public until further notice. Evacuations remain in effect for Hi-Lo Estates, Upper Kents Lake, Merchant Valley, Eagle Point area, Arrowhead Summer homes, and surrounding areas.
A large area closure is in effect within the Fishlake National Forest affecting roads and trails. Additionally, all BLM-managed lands west of Highway 89 between Bullion Canyon Road in Marysvale and the southern Piute County border are closed. State Highway 153 from Beaver to Junction is also closed between mileposts 3 and 35.
