Governor Spencer Cox has issued an executive order allowing for a statewide fireworks ban through July 5. During a recent press conference, the Governor noted that local governments may still designate safe areas for fireworks usage with guidance from fire officials.
This measure follows reports that more than 75% of state wildfires this year were caused by human activity.
Several wildfires are currently active across the state. The Cottonwood Fire near Beaver is 0% contained and has grown to over 70,000 acres. In response to the fire conditions, Dixie and Fishlake National Forests have enacted Stage 2 Fire Restrictions, which prohibit campfires and other activities that could spark a wildfire.
In Juab County, the Iron Fire has burned more than 37,000 acres and is 23% contained. While residents of Eureka were permitted to return home following evacuations, officials advised them to remain prepared for potential future evacuations if conditions change.
The Bonneville Fire, located above the University of Utah, is 95% contained and has burned 566 acres. Investigators have confirmed that this fire was also human-caused.
The current wildfire activity occurs amidst a difficult season for Utah agriculture, as a late freeze has destroyed more than 90% of fruit crops across the state.
