Unseasonably dry conditions spark February brush fire in Summit County

North Summit Fire District respond to a brush fire near Wanship. Photo: North Summit Fire

SUMMIT COUNTY, Utah — Fire crews responded to an unusual brush fire near Wanship Friday afternoon, a time of year when deep snow typically prevents wildfire activity in Summit County.

At approximately 1:10 p.m., North Summit Fire District crews were dispatched to the fire and requested additional resources from Park City Fire District and Utah Forestry, Fire & State Lands. The fire burned an estimated 1.5 acres before being fully contained. No injuries or structures were threatened.

According to Battalion Chief McKay Wadley of Park City Fire District, the fire was human-caused and accidental, ignited during work being done at a ranch in the area.

What made the incident notable, Wadley said, was not the cause or response but the timing.

“The biggest thing that’s unique about this is that it’s February,” he said. “Usually an area like that would be under four feet of snow. We typically don’t see brush fires this time of year.”

This winter’s below-average snowfall and warmer temperatures have left vegetation far drier than normal, creating conditions more commonly seen in late spring. Wadley noted high temperatures and low precipitation has left vegetation much drier than it is typically during the winter.

“Normally, the vegetation holds a lot more moisture because of snowpack, cooler temperatures, and fewer daylight hours,” he explained. “This year, it just hasn’t had that chance.”

Wind also played a role in the fire’s spread. The fire burned in a low-lying area where shifting winds contributed to its movement, though crews were able to stop it before it reached steeper terrain that would have made the mitigation more difficult.

The fire is now fully extinguished, and North Summit Fire District will continue monitoring the area for the next day to ensure no hot spots remain.

While Wadley said the fire appears to be an isolated incident, he acknowledged it could signal an earlier start to fire season if dry conditions persist.

“Our fire season usually starts in April or May,” he said. “It’s unusual to see activity this early.”

As a precaution, Wadley encouraged residents to remain mindful of fire safety, even during winter months.

“There are no fire restrictions right now, but people should be aware of how dry it is,” he said. “If you’re having a backyard fire or using any open flame, have water nearby, have a fire extinguisher nearby.”