The Widemouth 2 Fire has grown significantly, with officials estimating the blaze has at least doubled in size, leaving thousands of residents at risk of evacuation as the fire expanded to over 10,300 acres. The lightning-caused fire has reached 0% containment and continues to push north toward Fillmore amid intense winds and hot, dry weather conditions.
Rapid Growth and Difficult Conditions
The U.S. Forest Service reported that the Widemouth 2 Fire was last mapped at 10,300 acres, though the Northern Utah T3 Team estimates the actual size is much larger. Due to a dense smoke plume, officials noted that it has been difficult to obtain an accurate flight for updated mapping and acreage totals. Fire Operations staff planned to attempt a reconnaissance flight on the morning of August 2, 2026, to better assess the fire's true footprint.
On the evening of August 2, 2026, Natalie Wadas reported on X that the fire had absolutely consumed the ridge line overnight from the southern end of Kanosh. Wadas noted that conditions were extremely windy and hot, creating difficult circumstances for firefighters on the ground.
Fire Movement and Impact
The fire has demonstrated significant movement, jumping Kanosh Canyon during the early evening of August 2, 2026. Following this jump, the fire made a run of approximately 9 miles north, primarily following the forest boundary on the east side of local communities. The front flank reached the area above the town of Meadow by the morning of August 3, 2026, and has continued to push north toward Fillmore.
While the fire has moved aggressively, the U.S. Forest Service confirmed that no structures have been lost at this time. Despite the lack of structural damage, the fire is currently established in Pine Creek and is continuing to progress northward.
Suppression and Protection Strategies
Emergency management efforts are currently focused on protecting lives and critical infrastructure. The U.S. Forest Service stated that the key priority for operations is to protect lives first. Fire managers are working in close coordination with the Sheriff to account for all resources and to monitor the public impacted by current evacuations.
Firefighters are employing direct attack methods where possible. Crews are also scouting ahead of the fire's path to identify values at risk and to locate opportunities to create fuel breaks and barriers that could help hold the fire line. While there is limited activity on the south side of the fire, crews are working to secure that line through direct suppression efforts. The western handline has reportedly remained strong.
Evacuations and Road Closures
The Widemouth 2 Fire has forced the evacuation of approximately 25 homes in Kanosh, Meadow, and the Kanosh Band of Paiute Lands. Law enforcement agencies are working to evacuate residences as well as the Forest Service land located above Meadow and Fillmore.
In addition to residential evacuations, recreationists are being asked to evacuate the area. The U.S. Forest Service is currently working on an updated forest closure to manage public safety. Specific roadway closures include Highway 91, Corn Creek in Kanosh, and the area east of 500 West in Meadow.
Incident Background and Outlook
The Widemouth 2 Fire began on July 27, 2026, and was determined to be a natural-caused fire resulting from lightning. The incident is located within the Fillmore Ranger District, approximately 6 miles south of Kanosh, Utah, under the jurisdiction of the Fishlake National Forest.
As of August 3, 2026, the fire remains at 0% containment. Red flag weather conditions, characterized by hot, dry air and strong winds, are expected to persist, complicating ongoing firefighting efforts.
Resource Deployment
The U.S. Forest Service has ordered additional air support, engines, resources, and crews to the scene to combat the growing blaze. The incident is being managed by the Fishlake National Forest, with a dedicated information line established for public inquiries.
Public Information
For those seeking more information, the U.S. Forest Service has provided an official information line at 435-261-3607. Forest closures and updates can be monitored via the official Fishlake National Forest alerts page.
