2024 Utah wildfires

While the typical wildfire season in Utah varies, most fires occur in between July and October.^[3] Fire conditions can heavily depend on monsoons that last from late June to September. Dry monsoons can allow fires to start and spread easier, while wet ones can cause fire relief. Additionally, hot temperatures and overall dry conditions play a large role.^[4]

While above average snow packs had diminished fire activity in previous years (in the 2022-23 and 2023-24 winters), the melting snow led to growth of plants that were ideal for fire conditions. The hot and dry conditions dried out the abundant vegetation, a prime fuel for fires. There were above normal temperatures throughout Utah, including Salt Lake City seeing its first 100 degrees day three weeks before average. Warmth and dryness continued into August.^[5][6] A late and below-average monsoon contributed to drought and fire conditions.^[7] Unusually dry conditions in June and July created critical fire conditions. Thus, several fires were ignited during this period.^[1] All these conditions contributed to 538 wildfires burning approximately 40,000 acres (16,000 ha) by mid-July compared to 808 wildfires total in 2023 that burned 18,061 acres (7,309 ha).^[8]

The monsoon did not arrive until early August, but still provided a brief break in fire activity. Despite this, hot, dry, and windy weather returned in September and lasted until mid-October, causing an increased number of wildfires. Many large fires continued until the end of October when autumn storms brought precipitation throughout the state, essentially bringing an end to the wildfire season.^[1]