- The Monroe Canyon Fire in Sevier County has burned over 8,600 acres.
- Officials confirmed the fire was human-caused; investigation and firefighting efforts intensify.
- Evacuations are ongoing, with 450 personnel battling the blaze amid challenging conditions.
RICHFIELD — The Monroe Canyon Fire in Sevier County continues to grow rapidly, scorching more than 8,600 acres with zero percent containment as of Wednesday evening.
Officials have now confirmed the fire was human-caused.
The blaze, burning east of Monroe near Monroe Canyon and the surrounding mountain area, has already destroyed two cabins and is threatening several more homes and structures. Among those impacted are Dale and Pamela Magelby, whose family has lived in the area since 1870.
"The fire came really after us, as well as others," said Dale Magelby. "It took out some of our friends' cabins that live just blocks away."
Despite the devastation, the Magelbys remain hopeful.
"We don't know the outcome," Pamela Magelby added. "But we know where the Lord's hand is in place here."
Investigation underway
Sevier County Sheriff Nathan Curtis confirmed that investigators have ruled out an initial person of interest — a UTV driver — but say evidence at the fire's origin point indicates it was man-made.
"We do know that exactly where that fire started, there is some evidence that it was man-made," said Curtis. "That is where the side-by-side turned around."
Authorities are urging the public to come forward with any information. A tip line has been established. You can contact U.S. Forest Service Law Enforcement & Investigations at 801-388-3402.
Firefighting efforts intensify
Currently 250 personnel are battling the fire, with an additional 200 firefighters, engines and bulldozers expected to arrive within the next 24 hours. Crews from Utah, Idaho, Wyoming and Nevada are supporting the effort.
The Great Basin Team 3, led by Incident Commander Brett Waters, officially took over management of the fire Wednesday morning.
"We've had a lot of fires here in the last two years," Waters said. "Whatever we can do to stop it, that's what we're going to do."
Weather and terrain challenges
Fire officials said the next two to three days could offer a window of opportunity, with expected rainfall and higher humidity. However, gusty winds and lightning remain a concern, and drier conditions are forecasted to return next week.
The terrain is also proving difficult.
"Monroe Canyon will be on the landscape for a while," said Thomas Peterson, Area Manager for Forestry, Fire and State Lands.
Evacuations and community response
Evacuation orders remain in effect for areas including Manning Meadows. Curtis emphasized that while residents are not being forcibly removed, those who choose to stay should not expect rescue efforts later.
"If you don't want to leave, we won't force you. But we will not send more resources or risk lives to come and get you out later," he said.
Residents are encouraged to sign up for CodeRED Alerts to receive real-time evacuation and emergency updates.
Entry into some areas, such as Big Lake, is restricted, with limited access allowed between 8 a.m. and 2 p.m. for property retrieval.
Looking ahead
In the coming days, fire crews will shift focus from structure protection to establishing containment lines, particularly on the fire's southern and northeastern flanks. Officials said the fire is expected to continue spreading northeast.
Despite the challenges, the community remains resilient.
"It was obvious this fire was going to get very big," said Jason Klein, District Ranger for the forest service. "But the response has been swift, and we're just getting started. There's a lot of work to do."
