Fact Check: Over 380 wildfires have scorched more than 43,000 acres in Utah this season.

Fact Check: "Over 380 wildfires have scorched more than 43,000 acres in Utah this season."

What We Know

As of late June 2025, reports indicate that Utah has experienced a significant wildfire season. According to Governor Cox's announcement, there have been 380 wildfires recorded this year, which have collectively burned more than 43,000 acres across the state. The governor highlighted that 275 of these fires were human-caused, emphasizing the severity of the situation and the need for water conservation efforts to mitigate fire risks. Additional reports corroborate these figures, confirming the 43,000 acres burned and the 380 wildfires reported by the governor (Fox 13, ABC4, Cache Valley Daily).

Analysis

The claim that "over 380 wildfires have scorched more than 43,000 acres in Utah this season" is supported by multiple credible sources. The information comes directly from official statements made by Governor Spencer Cox, who is a reliable source given his position and the context of the announcement regarding drought and wildfire risks. The consistency of the figures across various news outlets (Fox 13, ABC4, Cache Valley Daily) further strengthens the reliability of this claim.

Moreover, the context provided by the governor's announcement highlights the increasing drought conditions in Utah, which have exacerbated wildfire risks. This situation is further detailed in reports from the CIRA Satellite Library, which discusses the broader implications of wildfires across North America, including those in Utah (CIRA Satellite Library).

While the claim is straightforward and backed by multiple sources, it is important to note that the potential for bias exists in any government announcement, particularly in the context of urging public action (such as prayer and fasting for rain). However, the data presented is factual and aligns with independent reporting from various media outlets.

Conclusion

Verdict: True
The claim that "over 380 wildfires have scorched more than 43,000 acres in Utah this season" is accurate. The figures are consistently reported by multiple credible sources, including official statements from the governor and various news outlets. The evidence supports the assertion that Utah is facing a challenging wildfire season, underscored by significant human activity contributing to the fires.

Fact Check: Over 380 wildfires have scorched more than 43,000 acres in Utah this season.