safety
Utah declares a state of emergency and restricts fireworks as US largest wildfire grows
By Kathy Mccormack, Associated Press at KSAT 12 (ABC affiliate)
· June 26, 2026
· 5 min read
Utah restricted fireworks and declared a state of emergency Friday ahead of July Fourth celebrations as the United States' largest wildfire expanded its reach across more tinder-dry forest as crews rush to fight new blazes in the arid state.The National Weather Service issued a rare “Particularly...
Key takeaway “We have the 35 miles-per-hour (56 km/h) sustained winds that they predicted, and we definitely have the 45 miles-per-hour (72 km/h) gusts,” said Alyssa Mason, a spokesperson assigned to the fire.
Why this matters in The San Antonio
San Antonio residents planning summer trips to Utah's national parks should closely monitor the situation, as the growing wildfire could impact travel plans. While air quality at Zion and Bryce Canyon national parks has not been significantly affected yet, the smoke from the fire is visible from these popular vacation spots. The fire's rapid spread and extreme behavior are a concern for authorities, and visitors should be prepared for potential evacuations or changes in park access. Locally, San Antonio's own experience with wildfires in surrounding areas serves as a reminder of the importance of preparedness and vigilance during dry summer months. As San Antonio's emergency management officials watch the situation in Utah, they may be reminded to review and update their own wildfire response plans to ensure the city is ready in case of a similar emergency.
About this story
Original reporting by KSAT 12 (ABC affiliate) . The San Antonio surfaces reporting from trusted publishers and adds local editorial context so readers can quickly understand what a story means for their community. We attribute every source, link to the original report, and follow a documented editorial standards policy. To understand how stories are selected and reviewed, read our about page .
For the complete original report, visit KSAT 12 (ABC affiliate) . Have a tip or correction? Contact our newsroom .
Category: safety ·
Published: June 26, 2026 ·
Source: KSAT 12 (ABC affiliate) ·
Reading time: 5 min
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Frequently asked about this story
What is this story about? Utah restricted fireworks and declared a state of emergency Friday ahead of July Fourth celebrations as the United States' largest wildfire expanded its reach across more tinder-dry forest as crews rush to fight new blazes in the arid state.The National Weather Service issued a rare “Particularly...
When was this published? This article was first published on June 26, 2026 by KSAT 12 (ABC affiliate) and curated for The San Antonio readers.
Who reported this story? This story was reported by Kathy Mccormack, Associated Press at KSAT 12 (ABC affiliate). To learn more about how The San Antonio selects and reviews stories, see our editorial standards .
Where can I find related coverage? See more safety coverage from The San Antonio, or browse our daily briefing and topic hubs .
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