HURRICANE, Utah, June 13, 2026 (Gephardt Daily) — Officials are warning residents about a mountain lion visiting town currently.
The animal was spotted in the area around the Dollar Tree at 1675 W. State St., the Hurricane City Police Department said.
“These sightings are rare but important to take seriously,” police said, advising the following:
• Bring pets indoors, especially at night
• Avoid walking alone in low‑lit areas
• Report any sightings to local officials – “Let’s look out for each other and our animals.”
Since the first post the department said it was asked by the state Division of Wildlife Resources to share the DWR’s safety information on the big cat.
“While sightings are uncommon, it’s important to know how to stay safe around wildlife and reduce the chance of conflicts,” police said, noting the DWR’s article covers how to avoid attracting mountain lions, what to do if you encounter one, tips for keeping pets safe, and when and how to report sightings.
Read the DWR’s full guide at this link.
Among more than 130 comments attached to the police postings on the mountain lion are a number of additional sightings, including: Gould’s Wash; the storage units behind Standard Plumbing at 1621 W. State St.; and at the Cliff Dweller’s retreat, 3465 S. 850 West.
Less specific sightings in the town of 25,000 include the animal sleeping in the tall grass by an unnamed church, lazing in the shade on a porch on 400 South, and other sightings around the Dollar Tree.
“Cougars, mountain lions, pumas — they have several different names, but these elusive predators can be found throughout Utah, the Utah DWR says.
“While cougar attacks are quite rare in the U.S., there is always the chance you may see a cougar on your doorbell camera footage — especially if you live in the foothills — or while you are out hiking this summer. If you do happen to encounter a cougar, there are a few simple steps you can take to keep yourself and your pets safe.” DWR Highlights include:
- Do not hike or jog alone
- Maintain awareness in cougar country while hiking or jogging, and avoid using headphones that block out your surroundings
- Travel in groups and keep everyone together, including children and dogs
- Make noise while hiking to alert cougars of your presence
- If you live in an area near deer habitat, do not leave children outside unattended, especially at dawn and dusk
If you do happen to encounter a cougar:
- Never run from a cougar, since that could trigger the cougar’s instincts to chase
- Maintain eye contact
- Pick up children and pets or keep them very close
- Stand up tall
- Do not crouch or squat
- Make yourself look bigger by raising and waving your arms or jacket above your head
- Talk firmly in a loud voice, back away slowly and leave the area
