Skip to main content
See every side of every news story
Published loading...Updated

Utah Gov. Spencer Cox declares emergency, expands fireworks restrictions ahead of July Fourth

The temporary order gives local leaders limited authority to set safe zones as Utah faces 353 wildfires and severe drought, officials said.

  • On Thursday, Utah Governor Spencer Cox issued an executive order banning fireworks statewide through July 5, citing "historic" and "extraordinary" wildfire conditions across the state.
  • Extremely hazardous conditions have scorched over 141,000 acres this season, with 94% of Utah in severe or extreme drought prompting a near-statewide Red Flag Warning from the National Weather Service.
  • While Republican state Representative Matt McPherson questioned the order's legality, Draper Mayor Troy Walker and other local leaders retain authority to designate specific safe areas for fireworks usage.
  • Starting at midnight Saturday, Utah moves to Stage 2 fire restrictions, banning all open fires as law enforcement prioritizes catching and screening charges for illegal usage.
  • State officials will reassess conditions before the July 24 Pioneer Day holiday, with the Governor suggesting a potential alternative fireworks day in November if drought conditions persist.
Insights by Ground AI

45 Articles

WPLGWPLG
+21 Reposted by 21 other sources
Center

Utah governor restricts fireworks as largest US wildfire surges uncontained

Utah's governor restricted fireworks and declared a state of emergency Friday ahead of July Fourth celebrations as the United States' largest wildfire mushroomed in size. The National Weather Service issued a rare “Particularly Dangerous Situation” warning as dry, windy conditions provided fuel for more fires across the western U.S.The Cottonwood Fire in a sparsely populated area of southern Utah started Monday. It reached nearly 111 square mile…

·Miami, United States
Read Full Article
Think freely.Subscribe and get full access to Ground NewsSubscriptions start at $9.99/yearSubscribe

Bias Distribution

  • 45% of the sources are Center
45% Center

Factuality Info Icon

To view factuality data please Upgrade to Premium

Ownership

Info Icon

To view ownership data please Upgrade to Vantage

The Herald Journal broke the news on Wednesday, June 24, 2026.
Too Big Arrow Icon
Sources are mostly out of (0)

Similar News Topics

News
Feed Dots Icon
For You
Search Icon
Search
Blindspot LogoBlindspotLocal