The Babylon fire increased rapidly in size, reaching a mapped area of 70,735 acres with 0% containment. Located 25 miles southwest of Monticello, the fire had previously been mapped at 48,000 acres on Tuesday. The blaze resulted in the loss of four structures.
Fire crews worked on the southern portion of the fire perimeter on Tuesday. According to the US Forest Service Manti-La Sal National Forest, crews used direct extinguishment strategies to construct and improve the heel of the fire. This strategy involves removing fuel directly along the edge of the fire to create a safe anchor point.
On Wednesday, firefighters attempted to mitigate the spread on the western perimeter by utilizing areas with reduced vegetation.
The Forest Service warned that fire activity was expected to increase in the Peavine and Dark Canyon drainages due to forecast wind gusts of up to 20 mph and single-digit relative humidity. A Red Flag Warning remained in effect until 8 p.m. on Wednesday because of dry fuels, low humidity, and gusty winds.
Officials also noted that smoke was expected to increase significantly overnight as the fire moved eastward, with air quality potentially reaching hazardous or very unhealthy levels.
