The Rocky Canyon Fire is estimated to have burned more than 13,600 acres, with containment reaching 23% following an active overnight period. Sierra Hellstrom, spokeswoman for the Northern Utah Type 3 incident management team, reported on August 11 that everyone is safe despite an intense night of firefighting.
The fire management team issued evacuations for Henefer-area residents on August 10 after the fire became highly visible. Hellstrom stated that the fire management team reached a trigger point on Monday afternoon, allowing residents to evacuate safely. The final evacuation count reached 517 people.
While the fire typically cools during overnight hours, Hellstrom noted that the overnight period leading into August 11 was the most active since the fire's ignition. The fire made progress along a ridge throughout the evening and did not cool off until well into the morning.
Containment efforts have focused on the perimeter from Highway 66 through East Canyon and up to the Hogsback area. Hellstrom identified the area above Henefer as a significant concern due to homes in the canyon, East Canyon State Park, and nearby communities.
To combat the fire, the number of firefighters on site is expected to increase from approximately 300 to at least 400 by the end of the day. Hellstrom urged residents to rely on the sheriff's office for evacuation information rather than rumors and asked motorists to stay well off the roadways to ensure the safety of emergency vehicles and crews.
The evacuation of 517 people represented nearly 62% of the Henefer population based on 2020 census data. Residents were required to move families, pets, and livestock to safety as flames remained nearby.
