The Cottonwood Fire in southwest Utah has expanded to nearly 70,000 acres with zero percent containment, according to officials on Wednesday. The blaze began Monday around 3 p.m. in the Tushar Mountains and spread rapidly over 48 hours amid record warmth, minimal snowpack, and ongoing drought. Mandatory evacuations cover Hi-LO, Eagle Point, Merchant Valley, Arrowhead Summer Homes, and areas up to Kent Lake, with residents directed east to Piute County. Circleville, Junction, and Marysvale remain on READY status. Structures have been destroyed, though damage is still unassessed. High winds up to 40 mph and flying embers are preventing direct firefighting efforts.

Prepared by Olivia Bennett and reviewed by editorial team.