Summit County issues Drift Smoke Advisory as active wildfires burn across the West

Photo: Utah Fire Info

SUMMIT COUNTY, Utah — Smoke drifting into Summit County from wildfires burning elsewhere in Utah and neighboring states prompted a public advisory Monday, as county officials emphasized that no active wildfires are currently burning within Summit County.

“Smoke from fires across Utah and in nearby states is drifting through Summit County,” Summit County said in a social post. “There are no active fires in Summit County at this time.”

As wildfire activity increases across the West, officials are reminding residents that widespread haze and smoke do not necessarily indicate a local fire. Instead, residents should only report a wildfire if they observe a defined smoke column rising from a specific location or visible flames.

The advisory comes as several fires continue to burn elsewhere in Utah amid hot, dry, and windy conditions. The largest and closest significant wildfire to Summit County is the Iron Fire in Juab County, southwest of Salt Lake City, which has forced evacuations in the town of Eureka and burned thousands of acres. In addition, the Bonneville Fire above the University of Utah sent smoke into the Wasatch Front after igniting Saturday evening.

State officials have reported multiple active wildfires across Utah as drought conditions and extreme heat elevate fire danger statewide.

Summit County remains under Stage 1 Fire Restrictions, which took effect June 6 for all state and unincorporated lands. The restrictions prohibit activities including most open fires, fireworks, exploding targets, and certain equipment use that could spark a wildfire. County officials raised the area’s fire danger rating to High late last week.

Emergency managers encouraged residents to stay informed throughout the fire season by signing up for text alerts. Residents can receive updates on active fires, weather conditions, red flag warnings and burn restrictions by texting SCFIRE to 91896.