Containment levels for the Babylon Fire have increased to 95 percent according to a daily update from July 20, 2026. Crews are currently focused on suppression repair operations and monitoring fire activity near Monticello.
Firefighters have made significant progress with chipping operations, which involve converting wood debris from cut trees and limbs into wood chips. This process is intended to maintain the integrity of containment lines by reducing dry fuels near the fireline that could contribute to fire spread. Officials anticipate completing the remaining chipping work today.
Unmanned Aircraft Systems (UAS) remain a vital component of the response, particularly in rugged terrain where firefighter access is limited or crewed aircraft cannot safely operate. These systems have provided real-time information on fire behavior and improved situational awareness through thermal imaging to identify hotspots. Following a lightning strike detected by aircraft yesterday, a UAS flight was used to confirm the location so firefighters could respond quickly.
As of the latest report, the fire has resulted in the loss of five structures. The incident involves 715 total personnel, including 21 crews, 6 helicopters, 12 engines, 1 dozer, and 11 water tenders.
Weather forecasts indicate scattered showers and thunderstorms are expected to develop in the early afternoon and continue into the evening.
Land management agencies and local officials are continuing to evaluate evacuation orders and area closures, with plans to reopen areas as safety conditions allow. The public is advised to monitor updates regarding evacuations in San Juan County, Manti-La Sal National Forest closures, Bureau of Land Management Utah closures, and all Utah fire restrictions.
