Media contact: Keith Paul
Regional Communications Director
keith.paul@redcross.org | 702-400-7680
NORTH OGDEN, Utah (Aug. 14, 2025) — The American Red Cross of Utah staffed an evacuation shelter overnight after fire and emergency officials ordered residents from more than 150 homes to evacuate as the Willard Peak Fire threatened communities in North Ogden. The shelter is located at the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, 3602 North 500 West in Pleasant View.
“We are committed to providing our community with the resources and support they need during this challenging time,” said Michael Smauldon, Executive Director of the American Red Cross Northern Utah Chapter. “Our dedicated volunteers and staff are working closely with first responders and emergency management to ensure everyone stays safe during the evacuation.”
The shelter will remain open as long as needed, including overnight and into Thursday morning as fire officials have announced that residents will not be allowed to return to their homes before 9 a.m. Thursday.
Willard Peak Fire Prompts Evacuations and Power Outages
The Willard Peak Fire began around 2:30 p.m. Wednesday after a vehicle fire spread into dry vegetation in the foothills near North Ogden. The wildfire has grown to more than 200 acres, leading to evacuation orders for residents east of 1050 East and north of 2850 North, with additional evacuations underway in Mason Cove. Authorities are urging the public to avoid the area to allow firefighters and first responders to work safely.
Erratic winds have grounded aerial firefighting efforts, leaving ground crews to battle the blaze. Smoke from the fire caused electrical faults on nearby transmission lines, prompting Rocky Mountain Power to de-energize segments for safety, leaving over 30,000 residents without power Wednesday night.
Wildfires Continue to Threaten Utah Communities
Utah has faced nearly 700 wildfires this year, burning more than 115,000 acres and forcing evacuations across the state. The Monroe Canyon Fire has scorched over 70,000 acres in Sevier and Piute Counties and remains uncontained, while the Forsyth Fire burned over 15,500 acres and destroyed 17 homes in Washington County before being contained.
“Wildfires like the Monroe Canyon Fire and the Forsyth Fire remind us of the importance of being prepared and ready to act quickly,” Smauldon said. For wildfire safety tips and preparedness resources, visit redcross.org/wildfires.
How to Find a Shelter
The Red Cross of Utah works closely with emergency management and community partners to provide relief during disasters. Red Cross shelters are open to everyone in need, offering a safe and welcoming space regardless of race, religion, gender identity, sexual orientation or citizenship status. No identification is required — only a name and the location of residence prior to the disaster.
For shelter information, visit redcross.org/shelter or call 1-800-RED-CROSS (800-733-2767).
Stay Prepared with Red Cross Apps
Be ready for emergencies by downloading the free Red Cross apps. The Emergency app provides live weather updates, shelter locations and expert disaster advice, while the First Aid app offers step-by-step guidance for injuries, including lifesaving CPR instructions. Search “American Red Cross” in your app store or visit redcross.org/apps to download.
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.
