8,500-Acre Deer Creek Fire Remains 0% Contained, Forces Expanded Evacuations

LA SAL, Utah – The Deer Creek Fire, burning near La Sal in San Juan County, Utah, has surged to over 8,500 acres and remains at zero percent containment as of Saturday evening, July 12, 2025. Erratic winds and challenging fire behavior have prompted expanded evacuation orders and significant road closures in the region. The fire, which ignited on Thursday, July 10, continues to pose a substantial threat to structures and residents.

The rapid spread of the wildfire has led to considerable damage, with fire officials confirming that five primary structures, believed to be homes, have been destroyed, and an additional ten structures have been damaged. Furthermore, 80 primary structures remain threatened by the uncontained blaze. The cause of the Deer Creek Fire is currently under investigation.

In response to the escalating danger, the San Juan County Sheriff's Office issued an expanded evacuation notice. Utah Fire Info stated in a tweet, ">An evacuation notice for the #DeerCreekFire due to erratic winds & fire behavior: Evacuate the area up to Mount Mantis (Mount Manns is the correct geographical area) off of Upper 2 Mile Rd to the Utah-Colorado border or within 5 miles of this incident." Approximately 250 people have been evacuated, and Highway 46, along with Old La Sal Road and Geyser Pass/Pack Creek/La Sal Pass Road, are closed.

Fire behavior has been described as erratic, characterized by running, crowning, and wind-driven runs, pushing flames further into forested areas. Crews are battling the blaze under hot, dry conditions with wind gusts up to 20 mph and humidity levels below 10%, complicating containment efforts. The Manti-La Sal National Forest has also implemented area closures.

A total of 190 personnel are engaged in firefighting operations, utilizing 10 fire engines, three water tenders, three dozers, and three helicopters. Their primary focus is on structure protection and establishing containment lines. The Great Basin Incident Management Team 4 is scheduled to assume command of the incident on Sunday, July 13, to further coordinate the extensive response.