Wildfires spread across western states in high winds and low humidity

Strong winds and low humidity have expanded several wildfires in the western United States, grounding air tankers and prompting temporary fireworks restrictions in Utah. The Cottonwood Fire in southern Utah grew to more than 112 square miles on Friday.

Gusts reached 45 miles per hour while humidity stayed in the single digits, forcing crews to work without aircraft support. A spokesperson assigned to the fire said crews are seeing extreme fire behavior, including crown runs and spotting. The blaze damaged the Eagle Point ski resort and prompted evacuations in nearby communities.

Weather conditions and warnings Red flag warnings now cover areas from Idaho through southern Arizona and New Mexico. Forecasts call for winds of 25 to 35 miles per hour in parts of northern Arizona and central and southern Utah. A meteorologist told a community meeting in Beaver County that the region faces a full 48 hours of critical weather not seen in Utah in the last five years.

A cold front on Sunday is expected to shift winds before conditions stabilize next week.

Fire restrictions and preparations Utah officials set temporary fireworks restrictions through July 5. The order noted that humans have caused most fires in the state this year. At Grand Canyon National Park, the utility serving the area warned of a possible safety power outage on Saturday.

Park officials advised visitors to download maps and charge devices in advance. A research professor at the Western Regional Climate Center said the risk of extreme fire behavior will remain as long as hot, dry, and windy conditions persist.