Media contact: Keith Paul
Regional Communications Director
keith.paul@redcross.org | 702-400-7680

SALT LAKE CITY (June 6, 2026) — The American Red Cross of Utah has placed disaster shelter volunteers on standby as the state faces worsening wildfire conditions and critical fire weather expected through Wednesday, June 10.

Hot, dry weather, low humidity and increasing winds are elevating fire danger across Utah, with Southern Utah facing the highest immediate risk. Stronger winds are expected to spread across the state this weekend, creating more widespread critical fire weather conditions, according to the National Weather Service.

“Red Cross disaster teams are preparing now so they can move quickly if communities need shelter support,” said Heidi Ruster, Chief Executive Officer of the American Red Cross Utah/Nevada Region. “Fire conditions can change rapidly, especially with high winds and very dry vegetation. Families should review evacuation plans, gather essential supplies and follow guidance from local emergency officials.”

Red Cross Shelter Teams on Standby
The Red Cross has disaster shelter volunteers on standby in all three Utah chapters: Northern Utah, Greater Salt Lake and Central and Southern Utah. Because the greatest threat is currently in Central and Southern Utah, additional shelter volunteers have been placed on standby in that area. The Southern Nevada Chapter also has volunteers ready to support if needed because of its proximity to St. George and southwest Utah.

The Red Cross is also preparing shelter supplies across the region. Trailers stocked with sheltering materials are positioned at strategic locations throughout Utah, with additional supplies available in nearby chapters if needed. Feeding agreements are in place across the state, and partner organizations, including The Salvation Army and Utah Food Bank, are prepared to support feeding operations if requested.

The Red Cross does not open shelters unless requested by local emergency management or government partners. If evacuations are ordered, Red Cross shelters may provide a safe place to stay, meals, water, health services, emotional support and help connecting with additional recovery resources.

Utah Enters Fire Season Under Drought Emergency
The elevated fire weather comes as Utah remains under a statewide drought emergency following the state’s warmest winter and lowest snowpack on record. Currently, 100% of Utah is experiencing drought conditions, with 59% classified as extreme drought.

Utah’s 2025 wildfire season was the state’s most active in years, with nearly 165,000 acres burned, the most since 2020 and more than the 2022, 2023 and 2024 seasons combined. State officials reported 1,161 wildfires last year, with estimated suppression costs reaching $191.8 million.

Utah could see more large wildfires this year because of low snowpack, drought and expected high summer temperatures. The National Interagency Fire Center projects above-normal significant fire potential in far southwest Utah, higher elevations by June and across much of the state by July.

Prepare Before Evacuations Are Ordered
The Red Cross encourages residents in areas at higher wildfire risk to prepare now:

• Know where to go if an evacuation is ordered and identify more than one route out of the area.
• Sign up for local emergency alerts and monitor updates from fire officials, law enforcement and emergency management agencies.
• Keep a go-kit ready with water, medications, important documents, phone chargers, clothing, cash, hygiene items and supplies for children, older adults, pets and people with medical needs.
• Move flammable items away from homes, including outdoor furniture, firewood, dry leaves and anything stored near decks, fences or garages.
• Keep vehicles fueled or charged and parked facing out if evacuation may be needed.
• Never drive around road closures or return to an evacuated area until officials say it is safe.

Avoid Sparks During Critical Fire Weather
During periods of high fire danger, even a small spark can start a fast-moving fire. Residents and visitors should avoid outdoor burning, properly dispose of cigarettes, secure trailer chains so they do not drag on pavement and avoid parking vehicles on dry grass. Equipment that creates sparks should be used with extreme caution and in line with local fire restrictions.

Stay Informed
The free Red Cross Emergency app provides weather alerts, shelter information and preparedness guidance. The Red Cross First Aid app includes step-by-step instructions for common injuries and emergencies. Search “American Red Cross” in app stores or visit redcross.org/apps.

More wildfire safety information is available at redcross.org/wildfire.

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.