Babylon Fire Conditions will "test mettle" on Thursday with crews battling hot conditions

The Babylon fire grew to the east overnight with crews continuing to focus on primary objectives of public safety and protecting high-value assets.
The fire is up to 102,932 acres and was active late Wednesday night and the early hours of Thursday. Relative humidity levels were in the single digits, with high temperatures expected on Thursday and gusts between 20 and 25 miles per hour fire officials have said the day will “test our mettle”.
Primary objectives remain focused on prioritizing public and firefighters safety in Monticello and Blanding. Protecting high value assets including communication towers, historic structures and the Horsehead with a final priority of limiting the rate of spread.
Evacuation Ready, Set and Go status have not changed over the past few days as of the morning of Thursday July 9.
No evacuation orders have been given with most residents in the “Ready” status, however six zones to the north and west of Monticello are in “Set” status including SJC1, Energy, Airport 1, Peter’s Hill West, CY1 and CY2.
SJC1 is the roughly 600 acres of private land in the National Forest that is immediately east of the Blue Mountain Ski Area.
Energy is the area near the Latigo Wind Farm.
Airport is from the Monticello Airport heading west toward Spring Creek.
Peter’s Hill West is the area west of Highway 191 along Peters Hill.
CY1 and CY2 is Dry Valley from Church Rock headed west towards Canyonlands and the Marie Ogden / home of truth area.
All areas within or adjacent to the City of Monticello remain in Ready status.
“Ready” status meaning residents should review emergency plans, gather important documents, medications and essential items. Ensure vehicles are fueled and stay informed.
Staffing has increased to 1,465 personnel made up of 39 crews with 69 engines, 22 water tenders, 14 helicopters, and four dozers.
Containment is up on the northern end of the fire reaching 21-percent.