SALT LAKE CITY – With daytime temperatures expected in the mid-90s next week and no drought relief in sight, Gov. Spencer Cox is appealing to a higher power.
Utah’s chief executive has declared Sunday, June 29 to be a day of prayer and fasting for much-needed rain as dry conditions continue to intensify across the state and wildfire risks escalate.
“Utah is facing a tough season,” Cox said June 27 after declaring the day of prayer and fasting. “We need both divine help and practical action.”
State officials report that extreme drought conditions now prevail over about 85 percent of the state, having expanded by 82.9 percent since early June.
Utah has recorded 380 wildfires so far in 2025, with 275 caused by human activity. Those fires have burned more than 43,000 acres statewide, putting stress on farms, ranches, rangelands and wildlife habitats.
In June, Utah is traditionally a dry month, with Salt Lake City receiving around 0.9 to 0.98 inches of rain spread over about 4 days on average.
Rainfall amounts vary across the state, with eastern areas potentially receiving more precipitation from thunderstorms.
Other than some light rain early in the month, northern Utah has seen little or no precipitation in June and the entire state has experienced above-normal temperatures throughout the month.
“I invite every Utahn,” Cox said, “whatever your faith or belief system, to join me this Sunday in a unified fast and prayer for rain.”
Most of the wildfires now burning are located in southern Utah, including the France Canyon Fire near Panguitch (about 30,000 acres and 15 percent contained) and the Forsyth Fire near Zion National Park (about 1,000 acres and 8 percent contained).
A relatively small fire (14 acres and zero percent contained) is burning in the Cedar Hills area of in Utah County, however.
State agencies are coordinating with local governments, farmers and water districts to monitor drought conditions and provide resources to local firefighters.
“While we look heavenward,” Cox added, “let’s also do our part here at home.”
Cox called on all Utahns to fix leaks, water their lawns less and use ever drop of liquid wisely.
“Small actions, taken together, can make a big difference for our state,” according to the governor.