Media contact: Keith Paul
Regional Communications Director
keith.paul@redcross.org | 702-400-7680
LAS VEGAS (June 27, 2026) — The American Red Cross of Southern Nevada has deployed six experienced disaster volunteers to Utah to support sheltering operations as multiple wildfires continue to threaten communities across the state.
The veteran volunteers deployed late Friday to the emergency shelter in Beaver, Utah, where they are caring for people displaced by the fast-moving Cottonwood Fire. The volunteers are providing assistance to families forced from their homes and working alongside Red Cross teams from across the region.
The Southern Nevada volunteers deployed to Utah are Sherriel Weithers and Rockee Nelson of Henderson, and Pat Moore, Ericka Campbell, Linda Gong and Gabe Pallasigui of Las Vegas.
“These Southern Nevada volunteers have responded to disasters across the country, and now they are bringing that experience to Utah as wildfires force families from their homes,” said Rachel Flanigan, Executive Director of the American Red Cross Southern Nevada Chapter. “Their work at the shelter gives families a safe place to stay and support after being evacuated from their homes.”
Wildfires Continue to Threaten Communities Across Utah
The Cottonwood Fire has burned more than 92,000 acres and remains 0% contained. The fire has destroyed numerous cabins, condominiums and other structures near Eagle Point Resort and in the Tushar Mountains, as well as at least 12 occupied homes. The wildfire continues to threaten nearby communities, and additional evacuations remain possible.
Currently, there are about 10 large wildfires across Utah burning nearly 200,000 acres. Red Flag conditions, including strong winds, very low humidity and dry vegetation, continue to create dangerous conditions that can spark new wildfires and cause existing fires to spread quickly.
The Red Cross also has emergency shelters open for people displaced by the Iron Fire near Eureka and the Cherry Fire in Tooele and Juab Counties. Red Cross teams continue to work with emergency managers, first responders and elected officials to assess community needs.
Become a Red Cross Disaster Volunteer
Red Cross disaster volunteers help residents after emergencies such as home fires, providing immediate support in person or remotely. With additional training and experience, disaster volunteers may have opportunities to deploy to larger relief operations across the country. Red Cross volunteers also assist with blood drives, support military families and help communities prepare for emergencies.
To learn more, visit redcross.org/volunteer.
About the American Red Cross
The American Red Cross shelters, feeds and provides comfort to victims of disasters; supplies about 40% of the nation’s blood; teaches skills that save lives; distributes international humanitarian aid; and supports veterans, military members, and their families. The Red Cross is a nonprofit organization that depends on volunteers and the generosity of the American public to deliver its mission. For more information, please visit redcross.org or CruzRojaAmericana.org, or follow us on social media.
