A wildfire near Old La Sal in San Juan County has necessitated evacuations for parts of the community, including residents living on Deer Creek and Deer Haven roads. By early evening on July 10, the fire, identified as the Deer Creek Fire, expanded significantly, reported to cover between 200 and 600 acres.
Authorities have taken measures to safeguard residents, with some evacuees relocated to the town of La Sal, located approximately 10 miles away. The town has a small population of around 300, but not all were under evacuation orders as of the afternoon on July 10. San Juan County advised evacuees to seek shelter at the Community Center in La Sal, providing a reprieve from the extreme heat.
Transport has also been impacted, with the Utah Department of Transportation announcing that Highway 46, known as Old La Sal Road, is closed at milepost 14—about three miles east of La Sal—and is urging motorists to find alternate routes.
Fire officials reported that while the fire is mainly burning on private land and its cause remains unknown, no structures have been damaged thus far, although several homes are at risk. Emergency crews continue to manage the fire, and evacuations are being carried out as necessary. Local residents have referred to the fire as “big” and alarming, noting the threats to many structures in the vicinity.
Critical fire weather conditions are exacerbating the situation, with the National Weather Service reporting wind gusts reaching up to 35 mph and extremely low humidity levels, as low as 6%, in southeastern Utah. A red flag warning remains in effect for areas east of the Colorado River, particularly in San Juan County.
Fortunately, Friday’s forecast indicates a potential decrease in wind intensity, although hot and dry conditions are expected to persist into the weekend. This could extend fire risks, but there is some hope as meteorologists predict the return of monsoonal moisture the following weekend, which may help mitigate the fire situation.
This developing story indicates the ongoing efforts and challenges faced by emergency responders as they work to control the Deer Creek Fire and ensure the safety of local residents. It shines a light on the community’s resilience and the cooperation displayed during such a critical time.