Forsyth Fire Grows to Over 8,000 Acres Near Pine Valley"June 24, 2025 — Pine Valley, UTThe Forsyth Fire, sparked by lightning on June 19, continues to burn in steep and rugged terrain north of St. George, now covering 8,229 acres with 0% containment as of Tuesday. The Great Basin Complex Incident Management Team 7, led by Incident Commander Mike Johnston, is coordinating with Dixie National Forest, State of Utah Forestry, Fire and State Lands, and other local partners to manage the blaze.Yesterday, firefighters rappelled from helicopters into difficult terrain on the fire’s southwest edge near an old burn scar to secure the fire perimeter. Crews are also working in Lloyd Canyon, digging hand line and laying hoses to protect nearby structures.Progress continues on the western portion of the fire, with connected hand and dozer lines stretching from the valley floor to Water Canyon. Fire crews are also protecting campgrounds in the Pine Valley Recreation Area by reducing fuel and laying hose lines. The fire has also extended into the Pine Valley Wilderness Area, where crews must follow special regulations that minimize equipment impact while still prioritizing containment.No new structure losses have been reported since the initial 12 homes were affected last week. Resources remain focused on mopping up hotspots, securing lines, and reducing threats to life and property. photo courtesy of https://www.firenet.gov/Weather and Fire BehaviorStrong southwest winds of 15–20 mph will continue today. A drying trend is expected to raise the potential for critical fire weather later this week, with Red Flag Warnings possible by Thursday or Friday. Sloped terrain, dry fuels, and low humidity are driving fire growth, particularly on the eastern flank.Evacuations and Closures“Go” evacuation orders remain in effect for the Pine Valley and Grass Valley communities.The Pinto area is currently at the “Set” level, meaning residents should be ready to evacuate if fire conditions worsen.A full Forest Closure Order is in effect for the Pine Valley Ranger District. Closure information and maps are available here.For questions about property status, contact Washington County Sheriff via the non-emergency line at 435-634-5730.Fire ResourcesCurrently assigned to the Forsyth Fire: 509 personnel 16 engines 2 water tenders 2 hotshot crews 2 hand crews 2 Type 1 helicopters Air Attack and Large Air Tankers 2 bulldozers (on order)Reminder: If you fly, we can’t. Drone use is strictly prohibited in the area due to the risk it poses to aerial firefighting operations.Fire Info Contacts:Public Information Line: 435-280-2263Media Only: 435-280-2259Email: [email protected] – Forsyth FireFacebook – Dixie National Forest..."Read the rest of story at link below Read the full article
