Overview of Wildfires in Salt Lake City
| Fire Name | Location | Acres Burned | Containment |
|---|---|---|---|
| Sandhurst Fire | Ensign Peak, Salt Lake City | 204 | 10% |
| Silver King Fire | Fishlake National Forest | 18,189 | 83% |
| Deer Springs Fire | Grand Staircase-Escalante National Monument | 11,766 | 87% |
| Little Twist Fire | Beaver County | 5,367 | 75% |
| Graff Point Fire | Iron County | 544 | 85% |
| Speirs Fire | South of Flaming Gorge Reservoir | 764 | 40% |
Current Situation
Salt Lake City is facing multiple wildfires, with the Sandhurst Fire on Ensign Peak being the most recent and significant. The fire has burned 204 acres and is currently 10% contained. Mandatory evacuations were ordered for residents living uphill from the Utah State Capitol, with more than 100 firefighters working to contain the blaze. Helicopters and airplanes are being used to drop buckets over the flames, while ground crews are trying to contain the fire.
Risks and Concerns
- Climate Risk: Downtown Salt Lake City has a moderate risk of wildfire over the next 30 years, based on the level of risk properties face.
- Fire Restrictions: Daggett County has implemented Stage 1 Fire Restrictions due to increasing fire activity throughout the state.
- Human-Started Fires: Human-started fires in 2024 have already surpassed Utah’s total for all of last year, with months of dangerous conditions remaining and another firework holiday looming.
- Insurance Premiums: Insurance companies are re-evaluating risk, increasing premiums or refusing renewals for parts of Salt Lake City where residents might not think of themselves as living in a high wildfire risk area.
Precautions and Mitigation Efforts
- Fire Departments: Utah fire departments are working to mitigate fire risk and help people prepare in case of an emergency evacuation.
- Prescribed Burns: Beneficial fire is an essential part of confronting the wildfire crisis, with partnerships aiming to get more workers on the line.
- Fire Restrictions: Residents are advised to follow fire restrictions and take precautions to prevent human-started fires.
Conclusion
Salt Lake City is currently facing multiple wildfires, with the Sandhurst Fire on Ensign Peak being the most significant. The city and surrounding areas are at moderate risk of wildfire over the next 30 years. It is crucial for residents to take precautions, follow fire restrictions, and be prepared for emergency evacuations.
