BREAKING: Evacuations Ordered as Forsyth Fire Explodes Near Pine Valley — Pinto and Grass Valley Urged to Leave Immediately
PINE VALLEY, UT — June 21, 2025 | 8:30 PM MT — In a rapidly escalating situation, fire officials are ordering immediate evacuations for the Pinto and Grass Valley communities as the Forsyth Fire continues to exhibit extreme fire behavior, fueled by gusty, erratic winds and dry terrain.
Fire Conditions Deteriorate Rapidly
Officials report that the Forsyth Fire, which began earlier this week, has entered a dangerous new phase. Despite containment efforts, shifting winds and high temperatures have caused the blaze to surge in multiple directions, particularly toward northeastern flanks above Pine Valley.
Fire crews are describing the fire’s behavior as “explosive,” with flame lengths exceeding 100 feet in some ridgeline areas and spotting ahead of the main fire front. The terrain, consisting of thick timber, dry brush, and steep inclines, is making access and suppression efforts extremely challenging.
Evacuation Areas and Alerts
The Washington County Sheriff’s Office has confirmed mandatory evacuation orders for the following areas:
Residents in these communities should leave immediately and take only essential belongings, medications, pets, and emergency supplies. Emergency officials stress that waiting could result in being trapped by advancing flames or thick smoke.
Evacuation centers are being set up at:
- Enterprise High School (located at 565 S. 200 E., Enterprise, UT)
- Washington County Fairgrounds for livestock and trailer parking
Law enforcement is going door to door in affected areas to assist residents and ensure compliance with evacuation orders.
Wind and Weather Fueling Fire Growth
Meteorologists and fire behavior analysts on the scene have reported erratic winds gusting between 30–45 mph, causing unpredictable fire movement and dangerous flare-ups. The forecast shows continued wind activity through Sunday, complicating efforts to gain control of the fire.
Fire officials warn that conditions may worsen before they improve, and that additional evacuation zones could be announced in the coming hours.
Firefighting Resources and Response
Over 250 personnel are now assigned to the Forsyth Fire, with air tankers, helicopters, bulldozers, and hand crews battling the flames. Due to poor visibility and wind shear, some aerial operations were grounded earlier in the afternoon but are expected to resume as weather permits.
The fire is burning in difficult-to-access wilderness with heavy fuel loads, making ground operations hazardous. Additional federal resources from the Bureau of Land Management (BLM) and U.S. Forest Service are en route to assist local and state crews.
What You Should Do If You’re in the Area
If you’re in or near the impacted zones:
- Evacuate immediately if you’re in Pinto or Grass Valley.
- Have an emergency “go bag” ready with essentials like identification, medication, chargers, water, food, and clothing.
- Leave irrigation and sprinklers on, close all windows and doors, and turn off gas and propane tanks before leaving your property.
- Monitor @UtahFireInfo, Washington County Emergency Services, and local news for updates.
- Do not return to evacuated areas until authorities confirm it is safe.
Latest Situation Overview
- Fire Name: Forsyth Fire
- Location: Near Pine Valley, Utah
- Size: Estimated 3,000+ acres (rapidly growing)
- Containment: 0%
- Cause: Under investigation
- Evacuations: Mandatory for Pinto and Grass Valley
Community Response and Resources
Local agencies and volunteers are working together to provide shelter, food, and aid for evacuees. Animal control units are also coordinating livestock evacuation for rural properties.
“We’re seeing fire behavior that’s extremely volatile and moving quickly,” said Incident Commander Mark Saldana. “Our top priority is public safety. If you’re told to evacuate—go. Structures can be rebuilt; lives cannot be replaced.”
This is a developing story. Further updates will be posted as official information becomes available. Stay safe, stay alert, and follow evacuation orders without delay.