MORGAN, Utah — Officials issued mandatory evacuation orders Sunday for homes between Hog Back Summit and West Henefer Road after the Rocky Canyon Fire expanded into both Morgan and Summit counties, prompting emergency shelter openings and movement restrictions for residents and visitors.
Who must leave and where to go
The evacuation covers all residences and structures in the affected corridor, with authorities placing these addresses under a “Go” status and instructing residents to leave immediately. People needing evacuation assistance were told to call 911. Evacuees seeking temporary shelter were directed to the Henefer LDS Chapel at 709 N. Main St., Henefer, and an additional shelter was established at the MHS Trojan Century Center, 699 E. Young St.
- All residents between Whites Crossing and East Canyon Dam are under the evacuation order.
- Hog Back Summit residents are in ready status and should prepare to depart at short notice.
- Large animals can be taken to the Morgan County Fairgrounds.
Why the evacuations were ordered
Emergency managers said the move was prompted by an active burn operation related to the Rocky Canyon Fire and the potential for changes in fire behavior that could threaten homes and roadways. Officials urged residents not to delay leaving to collect belongings and to avoid entering the burn operation area so crews can work safely and efficiently.
"Please be aware of increased firefighter activity and possible smoke in the area,"
That advisory accompanied notifications urging residents to spread the word to neighbors and to follow designated evacuation routes. Authorities warned of possible smoke impacts and the need for clear access for firefighting resources.
Scope of the fire and recent activity
Fire authorities report the Rocky Canyon Fire has burned more than 2,800 acres across Morgan and Summit counties. The blaze has already forced evacuations at the north end of East Canyon State Park, including the Dixie Creek Campground, and continues to be an active incident for local crews.
| Item | Detail |
|---|---|
| Approximate area burned | 2,800+ acres |
| Evacuation shelters | Henefer LDS Chapel; MHS Trojan Century Center |
| Large animal facility | Morgan County Fairgrounds |
Impact on recreation and local events
Officials previously evacuated portions of East Canyon State Park and closed facilities such as the Dixie Creek Campground. Event organizers also have been affected — the Utah Triathlon scheduled in the area was postponed as firefighters continued suppression efforts.
What residents should do now
Authorities emphasized these immediate steps for people in the evacuation zone:
- Leave now if you are under a Go order; do not delay to pack nonessential items.
- Follow designated evacuation routes and obey emergency personnel directions.
- Call 911 if you require assistance evacuating.
- Keep clear of burn operation areas and help notify neighbors who may not have received alerts.
Residents in the surrounding area should be prepared for increased smoke, temporary road closures and heavy emergency vehicle traffic. Those with respiratory conditions were advised to limit outdoor exposure if smoke becomes heavy.
Ongoing response
Fire crews and incident managers are conducting containment and burn operations to try to manage the fire’s spread. Officials did not release a containment percentage Sunday afternoon. Local authorities continue to update evacuation boundaries based on fire behavior and weather conditions.
WE NEWS will provide updates as officials release new information and will publish advisories about road closures, shelter status and recovery resources for affected residents.
