Karmactive Staff
Govind TekaleA rapidly expanding wildfire in the foothills above North Ogden has triggered 100+ home evacuations and widespread power outages as emergency crews battle the blaze amid challenging conditions.
The Willard Peak Fire, which began Wednesday afternoon, August 13, 2025, has grown to approximately 200 acres as of 6:54 PM. Utah Fire Info confirmed the fire was human-caused, specifically originating from a vehicle fire that spread into vegetation on the hillside.
“Erratic winds grounded air resources; aggressive uphill push toward rocky cliff barrier,” Utah Fire Info reported at approximately 6:54 PM. The fire is burning in what fire officials describe as “flashy fine fuels and Gambel oak,” vegetation types known to support rapid fire spread, especially on steep terrain.
Evacuation orders are in effect for residents living east of 1050 East and north of 3300 North, according to the latest update from emergency officials. This includes the Mason Cove subdivision, which is located off of Mountain Road near North Ogden Canyon Road, as confirmed by North Ogden City. The North Ogden Police Department is implementing these evacuation orders, which affect approximately 100+ homes in the area.
“If told to evacuate—leave,” emphasized Utah Fire Info in their official communications, stressing the urgency of the situation as fire behavior remains unpredictable.
Between 15-20 structures are currently threatened by the fire, according to Utah Fire Info. The fire was reported to be making an aggressive push uphill during the evening hours.
Rocky Mountain Power implemented emergency de-energization measures affecting approximately 29,000-30,000 customers. According to Rocky Mountain Power spokesman David Eskelsen, the fire burned through a transmission corridor between the Ben Lomond substation in North Ogden to the El Monte station near Riverdale. Despite it being a steel structure, smoke from the fire is electrically conductive, causing transmission lines to trip or cut power. The utility is conducting necessary inspections before power can be safely restored, with North Ogden City advising residents to prepare for outages until at least 9 PM Wednesday.
For displaced residents, the American Red Cross Northern Utah Chapter has established an evacuation shelter at 626 E. 2600 N in Ogden. Additionally, the Weber County Fairgrounds is accepting livestock from evacuated areas, providing critical support for residents with animals.
Fire crews have deployed both ground resources and aircraft to combat the blaze, though aerial firefighting operations have been intermittently limited by wind conditions.
The U.S. Forest Service has implemented trail closures in the area, including the North Fork Ogden Divide trailhead and parts of the Skyline North and Bonneville Shoreline trails, to ensure public safety.
Mountain View Irrigation is asking anyone on its system to refrain from using their water as helicopters battling the fire are using the irrigation tanks.
For those experiencing power outages, safety experts recommend:
- Keeping refrigerator and freezer doors closed to maintain cold temperatures
- Unplugging major appliances and air conditioning units to prevent power surge damage when electricity is restored
- Having battery-powered lighting available and avoiding candles when possible
Those in smoke-affected areas should:
- Stay indoors with windows and doors closed when possible
- Use HEPA air purifiers if available
- Limit outdoor activity, especially for sensitive groups including children, elderly, and those with respiratory conditions
The local air quality index (AQI) has deteriorated in areas downwind of the fire, with smoke visible throughout parts of Weber County.
The Utah Division of Forestry, Fire & State Lands reminds the public to avoid flying drones in the fire area, as this can force the grounding of firefighting aircraft and hamper suppression efforts.
For those seeking updates, Utah Fire Info continues to provide information through their official social media channels, using the hashtag #WillardPeakFire.
The fire response comes during a challenging fire season in Utah, where hot, dry conditions have created heightened wildfire risks throughout much of the state.
The report covered the Willard Peak Fire’s ignition cause, current size, evacuation areas, firefighting efforts, power outages, emergency shelter locations, and safety recommendations for affected residents. It included information about trail closures, livestock accommodations, and official communication channels for updates.
