Arizona Emergency Information Network

Crews continue to make excellent progress on the Pine Hollow Fire. The northern, eastern, and southern edges of the fire showed decreased activity, and crews are preparing plans to repair areas impacted by suppression activities. Because of the decreased activity in some portions, crews and helicopters are working to suppress the active fire along the north and western edge.

Additional crews and equipment continue to arrive and assist with fire operations. Today we expect fire behavior to be extreme due to dry fuel, high heat, and erratic winds. Pinyon-Juniper is the dominant fuel type across the fire area. Old fire scars, low vegetation density, and previous vegetation treatments are helping to slow the fire spread.

Closure Order:
A temporary emergency public land area closure went into effect August 2, 2020 at 8:00am.
Please do not go into the closure area for your safety as well as firefighting resources.

North of UT/AZ state line:

• All BLM public lands between Johnson Wash and House Rock Valley Road (BLM 1065)
• House Rock Valley Road is closed as well

South of UT/AZ state line:

• BLM Road 1026 to Hwy 89A 
• BLM Road 1024 to Winter Road (BLM Road 1025) 
• Winter Road (BLM Road 1025) from BLM Road 1026 east to House Rock Valley Road (BLM Road 1065)
• Arizona Scenic Trail from the Stateline campground south to the Kaibab National

Forest boundary 

Fire Details:
Fire Size/Containment: 11,373 acres and 38% contained
Location: 20 miles east of Kanab
Ownership: BLM Arizona Strip and Paria River Districts
Fire Behavior: Active
Cause: Natural, lightning
Structures Threatened: 1 House and 4 Outbuildings
Closures: Managers are asking the public’s assistance by avoiding all travel on the following
roads: House Rock Valley Road (BLM 1065) from Hwy 89 to Hwy 89A, Winter Road, and FS 248.
Stateline Campground is closed to the public. All access to The Wave and other popular hikes
from House Rock Valley Road is temporarily suspended.
Fuels/Terrain: Grass, brush, woodlands
Resources Assigned: 1 Type 1 Engine, 3 Type 3 engines, 5 Type 4 engines, 11 Type 6 engines, 4
Dozers, water tenders, 4 Masticators, 2 Type 1 helicopter, 1 Type 2 helicopter, 3 Type 3
helicopters, 8 crews.
Injuries: 2

Information Resources:
Contact: Julie Thomas, [email protected] 208-731-8604
LaDawn Saxton, [email protected] 208-634-6566
Email: [email protected]
Fire Information: https://inciweb.nwcg.gov/incident/6899/
Twitter: @UtahWildfire
Web: https://utahfireinfo.gov/
Twitter: @BLMAZFire
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/BLMArizona/

Coconino National Forest firefighters responded to a wildfire yesterday evening located approximately 5 miles south/southeast of Village of Oak Creek off the east side of northbound Interstate 17.

The Pig Fire, named due to its proximity near Pig Trough Tank, was reported about 4:45 p.m. yesterday and started on the east side of the northbound lane of I-17, growing to about 120 acres as of this morning. Cause is unknown at this time and under investigation. The fire currently poses no risk to any structures, homes, or communities.

Fire crews conducted some burnout operations late yesterday evening and may conduct more today. The fire is burning is pinyon juniper, heavy grass, and brush and will move toward the northeast as the day progresses. However, thunderstorms later in the day could change the direction, as well as smoke impacts to communities.

Current resources on scene include a Hotshot crew, six engines, a fuels crew, one water tender, one dozer, and partner agency personnel from Arizona Department of Transportation, Department of Public Safety, and Yavapai County Sheriff’s Office. In total, approximately 80 firefighters are assigned to the fire.

Lane restrictions exist on the northbound side of I-17 near the Sedona exit, so motorists should plan for additional time when traveling north.

Updates will be provided as they are received, and shared via news release and Coconino National Forest social media accounts (Facebook, Twitter).

Ground and aviation resources were able to make progress on the Pine Fire yesterday as they attempted to secure the fires edge. Ground resources were able to utilize the type 3 helicopter to aid them with their efforts dropping water on the active portion of the fire. The remote Pine Mountain Wilderness would present challenges to extract injured personnel if an incident were to occur. Contingency plans as well as a Fireline Medical Team are in place.

Fire information:

• Location: Pine Mountain Wilderness – Verde Ranger District (T11N, R5E, SEC 35), sixteen miles east of Cordes Junction.
• Start Date: 07-12-20
• Size: 2184
• Percent Contained: 90%
• Cause: Lightning
• Vegetation: Grass, Brush, Ponderosa Pine
• Resources: 1-Type 2 Hand crew, 1-Type Three Helicopter (Suppression, Aerial Reconnaissance, Logistical Support), 1-Fireline Medical Crew.

Weather: Near-record heat is being observed across the region this afternoon. Maximum temperatures ranging from 100-110 degrees, minimum relative humidity 10-15%, winds 10 MPH out of the Southwest. Hot and dry weather will continue into Friday and Saturday along with near record high temperatures.

Closures: Forest ordered closures are in effect as of July 27th . Fire managers and forest personnel will go in and evaluate the fire area to mitigate any hazard trees along the wilderness trail systems for public safety. Remember – One Less Spark, One Less Wildfire.

The public can obtain additional information via the following:

• Prescott NF Forest Website: http://www.fs.usda.gov/prescott/
• Twitter: @PrescottNF
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/PrescottNF/
• Local Ranger Station: Verde Ranger District (928) 567-4121

Crews continue to make excellent progress on the Pine Hollow Fire. The most active part of the fire is the northern edge, where winds drove the fire towards the previously burned Wire Pass Fire. Along the eastern edge, the fire is holding west of House Rock Valley Road. On the south, crews continue to hold the fire along Winter Road and have been extinguishing small spot fires that ignite south of the road. Resources continue to arrive and assist with fire operations.

Today we expect fire behavior to be extreme due to dry fuel, high heat, and erratic winds. Pinyon-Juniper is the dominant fuel type across the fire area. Old fire scars and vegetation treatments are helping to slow the fire spread in places where those occurred and where treatments were put in place.

Fire Information: https://inciweb.nwcg.gov/incident/6899/

Weather: High pressure will continue to bring hot, dry and unstable conditions for the foreseeable future. Afternoon temperatures will be in the upper 90’s. Gusty and erratic winds are expected on the fire this afternoon.  

Fire Size/Containment: 11,168 acres and 0% contained

Location: 20 miles east of Kanab

Ownership: BLM Arizona Strip and Paria River Districts 

Fire Behavior: Active

Cause: Natural, lightning

Structures Threatened: 1 House and 4 Outbuildings

Closures: Managers are asking the public’s assistance by avoiding all travel on the following roads: House Rock Valley Road (BLM 1065) from Hwy 89 to Hwy 89A, Winter Road, and FS 248. Stateline Campground is closed to the public.

Fuels/terrain: Grass, brush, woodlands

Resources Assigned: 2 Type 3 engine, 3 Type 4 engines, 9 Type 6 engines, 1 Dozer, 2 Type 2 water tenders, 1 Type 1 water tender, 2 Type 1 helicopter, 1 Type 2 helicopter, 3 Type 3 helicopter. 

Injuries: None

Get the latest fire updates:

• Twitter: @UtahWildfire 
• Web: https://utahfireinfo.gov/ 
• Twitter:  @BLMAZFire    
• Facebook:  https://www.facebook.com/BLMArizona/ 

Crews continue to make excellent progress on the Pine Hollow Fire. The most active part of the fire is the northern edge, where winds drove the fire towards the previously burned Wire Pass Fire. Along the eastern edge, the fire is holding west of House Rock Valley Road. On the south, crews continue to hold the fire along Winter Road and have been extinguishing small spot fires that ignite south of the road. Resources continue to arrive and assist with fire operations.

Today we expect fire behavior to be extreme due to dry fuel, high heat, and erratic winds. Pinyon-Juniper is the dominant fuel type across the fire area. Old fire scars and vegetation treatments are helping to slow the fire spread in places where those occurred and where treatments were put in place.

Fire Information: https://inciweb.nwcg.gov/incident/6899/

Weather: High pressure will continue to bring hot, dry and unstable conditions for the foreseeable future. Afternoon temperatures will be in the upper 90’s. Gusty and erratic winds are expected on the fire this afternoon.  

Fire Size/Containment: 11,168 acres and 0% contained

Location: 20 miles east of Kanab

Ownership: BLM Arizona Strip and Paria River Districts 

Fire Behavior: Active

Cause: Natural, lightning

Structures Threatened: 1 House and 4 Outbuildings

Closures: Managers are asking the public’s assistance by avoiding all travel on the following roads: House Rock Valley Road (BLM 1065) from Hwy 89 to Hwy 89A, Winter Road, and FS 248. Stateline Campground is closed to the public.

Fuels/terrain: Grass, brush, woodlands

Resources Assigned: 2 Type 3 engine, 3 Type 4 engines, 9 Type 6 engines, 1 Dozer, 2 Type 2 water tenders, 1 Type 1 water tender, 2 Type 1 helicopter, 1 Type 2 helicopter, 3 Type 3 helicopter. 

Injuries: None

Get the latest fire updates:

• Twitter: @UtahWildfire 
• Web: https://utahfireinfo.gov/ 
• Twitter:  @BLMAZFire    
• Facebook:  https://www.facebook.com/BLMArizona/ 

Bacterial levels in water samples taken at Princess Cove and North Arizona Telephone Cove on Lake Mohave exceeded local, state and National Park Service standards for recreational activity.

Park biologists routinely sample water quality at the park’s swim beaches to help reduce the risk of waterborne diseases. Visitors should avoid contact with these waters, until further notice. Biologists are re-sampling the water daily, and once levels return to acceptable levels, the advisory will be lifted.

Increases in bacterial levels like this are often caused when people dump RV or vessel sewage tanks in the water. If a visitor sees or suspects illegal dumping, they should call 911 immediately. Free dump stations are available at all park campgrounds.

For more information on fecal coliform, visit the Environmental Protection Agency website at https://archive.epa.gov/water/archive/web/html/vms511.html.  

For more information on enterococci, visit the Environmental Protection Agency website at https://www.epa.gov/national-aquatic-resource-surveys/indicators-enterococci.

The Willow Fire, ignited by lightning on the Apache-Sitgreaves National Forests’ Black Mesa Ranger District on July 28 when thunderstorms occupied the area, was reported on July 30. The fire is located within the 2007 Wilkins Fire footprint and is in a remote area where values at risk are minimal and no structures are threatened at this time. The type of fuel is timber, grass, and dead and down material.

Fire Information

• Location of Origin: Apache-Sitgreaves National Forests, Black Mesa Ranger District
• Start Date: July 28, 2020                
• Size: Approximately 30 Acres     
• Cause: Lightning                               
• Percent Contained: 0                                                                     
• Personnel: 40   
• Resources Assigned: 2 initial attack crew, 2 Type 3 engines, 2 Type 6 engines, 1 Dozer, and various incident management overhead.

The Willow Fire is currently at a Type 4 level and the Incident Commander is Daniel Ruebush. A full suppression strategy is being deployed and will utilize the existing road systems in the area, which includes Forest Service Roads 62, 62B1, 62S7 and 62S.

If weather permits, burning operations will begin today and will continue through Saturday. Smoke will be visible from the communities of Heber-Overgaard, Forest Lakes, Clay Springs, and along Highways 260, 277 and 377. Burnout operations can produce large amounts of smoke, and although these tactics are vital to successful firefighting operations, smoke from wildfires can be hazardous to your health. The Air Quality Division of the Arizona Department of Environmental Quality operates a network of portable particulate monitors across Arizona;  anyone with access to the internet can view air quality by visiting their website at https://www.phoenixvis.net/ppmmain.aspx.

The National Weather Service forecast for Heber-Overgaard is calling for mostly sunny skies today with a high near 94 degrees, and minimal winds. The forecast for tomorrow is calling for a 20% chance of precipitation and increasing winds.   

Members of the public are advised to drive with caution in the area as smoke may reduce visibility. Fire information can be found on the Apache-Sitgreaves National Forests website at www.fs.usda.gov/asnf.

The Willow Fire, ignited by lightning on the Apache-Sitgreaves National Forests’ Black Mesa Ranger District on July 28 when thunderstorms occupied the area, was reported on July 30. The fire is located within the 2007 Wilkins Fire footprint and is in a remote area where values at risk are minimal and no structures are threatened at this time. The type of fuel is timber, grass, and dead and down material.

The Willow Fire is currently at a Type 4 level and the Incident Commander is Daniel Ruebush. A full suppression strategy is being deployed and will utilize the existing road systems in the area, which includes Forest Service Roads 62, 62B1, 62S7 and 62S.

If weather permits, burning operations will begin today and will continue through Saturday. Smoke will be visible from the communities of Heber-Overgaard, Forest Lakes, Clay Springs, and along Highways 260, 277 and 377. Burnout operations can produce large amounts of smoke, and although these tactics are vital to successful firefighting operations, smoke from wildfires can be hazardous to your health. The Air Quality Division of the Arizona Department of Environmental Quality operates a network of portable particulate monitors across Arizona;  anyone with access to the internet can view air quality by visiting their website at https://www.phoenixvis.net/ppmmain.aspx.

The National Weather Service forecast for Heber-Overgaard is calling for mostly sunny skies today with a high near 94 degrees, and minimal winds. The forecast for tomorrow is calling for a 20% chance of precipitation and increasing winds.   

Members of the public are advised to drive with caution in the area as smoke may reduce visibility. Fire information can be found on the Apache-Sitgreaves National Forests website at www.fs.usda.gov/asnf.

Fire Details:
Location of Origin: Apache-Sitgreaves National Forests, Black Mesa Ranger District
Start Date: July 28, 2020                
Size: Approximately 30 Acres     
Cause: Lightning                               
Percent Contained: 0                                                                     
Personnel: 40   
Resources Assigned: 2 initial attack crew, 2 Type 3 engines, 2 Type 6 engines, 1 Dozer, and various incident management overhead.

The Prescott National Forest has lifted all fire restrictions and we ask the public to please be vigilant in your activities.  Stop, look, and think before you do something that may cause a spark or start of a fire in the Forest.  Unattended campfires are still the leading human cause of wildfire. Visitors who plan to enjoy campfires should carry enough extra water to be used specifically to extinguish campfires; avoid building fires on windy days; use metal grills and fire rings where provided; otherwise choose campfire sites carefully which are devoid of vegetation above, below or around the fire site; maintain small fires with no fuel protruding from the grill or fire ring and ensure all fires and smoking materials are completely extinguished and cold to the touch before leaving them for any reason.  (Drown with water, stir, drown and continue until cold. “Smothering” a fire with dirt is not sufficient to put the fire “dead out.”).

“I understand the communities concerns with the fire and shooting restrictions being lifted on Saturday.  We did not get enough weather to get us out of fire season, but we did get enough to get us out of restrictions based on the fuels indices.  The Prescott NF went into restrictions earlier than normal because of COVID and wanted to reduce the potential for a large project fire at that juncture due to the COVID and smoke risks to firefighters and our communities.  With shortening days and better humidity recovery at night, and for the most part out of the winds of spring, we are in a better place to remove the restrictions,” said Dale Deiter, Forest Supervisor Prescott National Forest.  “We are continuing to watch the weather and our indicators; and can reinstate restrictions if warranted.  Our default stance is always to have as few restrictions as possible on the public so they can enjoy their lands and as you are aware it is often a tough balancing act.”  

Fire restrictions do not prevent wildfires.  It is every camper’s responsibility to properly maintain and extinguish a campfire to prevent wildfires.

As noted in our “One less spark – One less wildfire” campaign, pay attention to the area and vegetation around you if you’re welding; if you’re mowing the grass; or working with metals and rocks.  If you’re towing a trailer, ensure your safety chains are the appropriate length so they don’t drag on the roadways and ensure they are properly secured to your vehicle so they don’t come off and drag along the road as you drive.

Review Smokey Bear’s Campfire Safety guide.

Visitors can obtain additional information by visiting the Prescott National Forest Website: http://www.fs.usda.gov/prescott/ or by following us on Facebook or Twitter. 

The Arizona Department of Environmental Quality (ADEQ) is issuing a High Pollution Advisory (HPA) for ozone effective August 1 & 2, 2020, in the Phoenix area. ADEQ recommends that people limit outdoor activity while the HPA is in effect, especially children and adults with respiratory problems.

Ground level ozone forms when two types of pollutants—volatile organic compounds (VOCs) and nitrogen oxides (NOx)—react in sunlight. These pollutants come primarily from automobiles, but also from other sources including industries, power plants, and products, such as solvents and paints. Generally, the highest levels of ozone occur in the afternoon.

Check the Hourly Air Quality Forecast on the Air Arizona Mobile App

Apple iTunes >
https://apps.apple.com/us/app/air-arizona/id1400658164

Google Play >
https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=gov.adeq.arizonaair&hl=en_US

Health Impacts

People most vulnerable to the impacts of air pollution include children, older adults, adults exercising outdoors, people with heart or lung disease and those suffering from asthma and bronchitis. Exposure can increase the number and severity of asthma attacks, cause or aggravate bronchitis or other lung disease and reduce the body’s ability to fight infection. Symptoms may include itchy eyes, nose, and throat, wheezing, coughing, shortness of breath, chest pain and upper respiratory issues.

Please help reduce ozone by doing one or more of the following:

• Drive as little as possible
• Re-fuel your vehicle in the evening
• Avoid waiting in long drive-thru lines, if possible
• Use low-VOC (Volatile Organic Compounds) or water-based paints, stains, finishes and paint strippers – delay big painting projects
• Make sure containers of household cleaners, garage and yard chemicals and other solvents are sealed properly to prevent vapors from evaporating into the air

Be Air Aware!
http://azdeq.gov/AirAware

Stay informed and be a part of the ADEQ air quality challenge.  Together we can make a difference to improve air quality for everyone in Arizona by following three simple steps.

Learn More >
http://azdeq.gov/AirAware

BACKGROUND

High Pollution Advisory (HPA) | Notifies the public that the level of an air pollutant is forecast to exceed the federal health standard.

Health Watch (HW) | Notifies the public that the level of an air pollutant is forecast to approach the federal health standard.

Particulate Matter Fact Sheet | View >
https://static.azdeq.gov/aqd/pm_FS.pdf

Ozone Fact Sheet | View >
https://static.azdeq.gov/aqd/ozone_FS.pdf

FIND THE FORECAST

ADEQ Hourly Air Quality Forecast | View >
http://azdeq.gov/node/5065

Text or Email Alerts | Subscribe > 
https://public.govdelivery.com/accounts/AZDEQ/subscriber/new?topic_id=AZDEQ_1

Air Arizona Mobile App | Learn More >
http://azdeq.gov/AirAZ

Apple iTunes >
https://apps.apple.com/us/app/air-arizona/id1400658164

Google Play >
https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=gov.adeq.arizonaair&hl=en_US

Ground and aviation resources were able to engage the active portion of the Pine Fire yesterday. 

An unnamed drainage south of Bishop creek is where the fire became visible after days of drying out from last weeks storms. 

Fire crews will continue constructing fire line using Minimal Impact Suppression Tactics (MIST) attempting to secure the active fire edge.

The remote Pine Mountain Wilderness would present challenges to extract injured personnel if an incident were to occur. Contingency plans as well as a Fireline Medical Team are in place.

Resources: 1-Type 2 Hand crew, 1-Type Three Helicopter (Suppression, Aerial Reconnaissance, Logistical Support), 1-Fireline Medical Crew.

Weather: Near-record heat is being observed across the region this afternoon. Maximum temperatures ranging from 105-115 degrees, minimum relative humidity 8%, winds 10 MPH out of the West. Hot and dry weather will continue into Friday and Saturday along with near record high temperatures.

Closures: Forest ordered closures are in effect as of July 27th

Fire managers and forest personnel will go in and evaluate the fire area to mitigate any hazard trees along the wilderness trail systems for public safety. Remember – One Less Spark, One Less Wildfire.

Fire Details:
Location: Pine Mountain Wilderness – Verde Ranger District (T11N, R5E, SEC 35)
Start Date: 07-12-20
Size: 2134 Acres
Percent Contained: 90%
Cause: Lightning
Vegetation: Grass, Brush, Ponderosa Pine

The closure order for developed recreation sites in the Coronado National Forest, has been extended to August 31, 2020. The White Rock Campground on the Nogales Ranger district was removed from the closure order and is scheduled to re-open on August 1, 2020.

“The health and safety of our communities and employees remains our number one priority," said Forest Supervisor, Kerwin Dewberry. "While visitor centers and group areas will remain closed, we recommend people continue to recreate responsibly. We ask that visitors please continue to follow local, state and federal guidelines on social distancing."

We ask the public to engage in activities that support social distancing and small groups, and that are aligned with the Center for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and Arizona Department of Health direction, such as hiking, biking and dispersed camping. Visitors can mitigate resource impacts while recreation sites are closed by bringing home their trash (pack it in, pack it out) and practicing Leave No Trace Principles.

The Coronado National Forest continues to conduct business and accomplish its mission virtually in alignment with all federal, state and local public safety guidance. For recreation opportunities in Arizona and tips on how to recreate responsibly visit, https://tourism.az.gov/responsible-recreation-across-arizona/

The Pine Fire experienced a short lull in monsoonal moisture at the end of last week. With the continuing trend of high temperatures, smoke has been visible the past few days. Late Tuesday, Aerial resources (Air Attack) observed the fire backing to the South into an unnamed drainage East of Bishop Creek Drainage. Despite the fire’s Wilderness location, fire managers decided to engage the fire by use of both aerial and ground resources. Crews will plan to construct containment lines and “mop up” hot spots along the fire’s edge using (MIST) Minimal Impact Suppression Techniques along with support from the helicopter.

The remote Pine Mountain Wilderness would present challenges to extract injured personnel if an incident were to occur. Contingency plans as well as a Fireline Medical Team are in place.

Fire Information:

• Location: Pine Mountain Wilderness – Verde Ranger District (T11N, R5E, SEC 35)
• Start Date: 07-30-20
• Size: 2124 Acres
• Percent Contained: 90%
• Cause: Lightning
• Vegetation: Grass, Brush, Ponderosa Pine

Resources: 1-Type 2 Hand crew, 1-Type Three Helicopter (Suppression, Aerial Reconnaissance, Logistical Support), 1-Fireline Medical Crew.

Weather: Near-record heat was observed across the region yesterday afternoon. Maximum temperatures ranging from 93-103 degrees, minimum relative humidity 10-15%, winds 5-15 MPH out of the West. Hot and dry weather will continue into Friday and Saturday along with near record high temperatures.

Closures: Forest ordered closures are in effect as of July 27th. Fire managers and forest personnel will go in and evaluate the fire area to mitigate any hazard trees along the wilderness trail systems for public safety. See attached maps for further information.

Remember – Fireworks are illegal on public land: every forest, every day.

The public can obtain additional information via the following:

• Prescott NF Forest Website: http://www.fs.usda.gov/prescott/ 
• Twitter: @PrescottNF 
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/PrescottNF/
• Local Ranger Station: Verde Ranger District (928) 567-4121

The Bringham Fire was ignited by lightning on the Apache-Sitgreaves National Forests’ Clifton Ranger District on June 6, 2020. Conditions at the time were extremely dry, and the fire, burning in steep rugged terrain, quickly grew beyond the capacity of available firefighting resources. On June 7, the White Mountain Zone Type 3 Incident Management Team, led by Incident Commander Matt Bullmore, assumed command. Driven by strong winds, the Bringham Fire doubled in size on June 11, initiating the action for the Forest to order the Southwest Incident Management Team 4, led by Incident Commander Carl Schwope beginning June 13. 

Throughout the duration of the incident, firefighters worked to keep the fire from spreading west of Highway 191, an identified value at risk. Successful on-the-ground and aerial firefighting efforts decreased the fires complexity, and on June 23, the Type 2 Team transitioned management of the fire back to the White Mountain Zone Type 3 Team. Over the next week, fire activity and growth decreased, and command transitioned from the White Mountain Zone Type 3 Team to a Type 4 Organization, led by Incident Commander Joe Names, on July 2. 

Thanks to successful firefighting efforts, and the tireless contributions made by the many resources that battled the blaze, the Bringham Fire was declared 100% contained on July 29, 2020. The suppression cost to date for the Bringham Fire is $9.4 million. 

Monsoon showers have recently blanketed the Bringham Fire, and the potential for flooding has been analyzed. A Burned Area Emergency Response (BAER) team completed their evaluation of the potential for post-wildfire effects and prescribed emergency response actions to protect the land quickly and effectively. 

BAER assessment teams are staffed by specially trained professionals representing multiple disciplines who evaluate the burned area and prescribe specific actions, such as deploying an excavator to create water bars along the fire-containment dozer lines to mitigate soil erosion. Additional post-wildfire analysis focused on potential impacts to threatened and endangered species, cultural and heritage sites, natural resources, and recreation sites near the burned area. 

The public is advised to be cautious when visiting areas downstream of the Bringham Fire burned area as it is now more vulnerable to flash flooding and debris flows—ash, sand, silt, rocks and woody material. Rainfall runoff normally absorbed by soil and vegetation may runoff extremely quickly in a burned area because the soil is damaged, and the vegetation no longer exists. Recreationalist must be prepared to move to higher ground when chances of rain exist. For flash flooding alerts and safety information, visit the National Weather Service website: https://www.weather.gov/safety/flood. The temporary area closure around the fire remains in effect for the protection of public health and safety. 

Los Servicios Humanos y de Salud del Condado de Coconino alienta a las personas que buscan pruebas COVID-19 en Fort Tuthill County Park, 2446 Fort Tuthill Loop, Flagstaff a registrarse en línea en www.coconino.az.gov/covid19. Las personas que se registren recibirán un boleto de autorización para presentar en el sitio de pruebas. Las personas que no pueden completar el registro en línea pueden comunicarse con el Centro de llamadas para obtener ayuda al 928.679.7300.

Las líneas para las pruebas en Fort Tuthill han sido modestas con tiempos de espera generalmente no superiores a una hora, sin embargo, registrarse antes de la llegada acelera aún más el proceso. Aquellos que se registren tendrán etiquetas preimpresas y formularios listos para ellos a su llegada, eliminando generalmente 5-10 minutos de tiempo de espera. Se aconseja a aquellos que se registren antes de llegar a realizar un formulario de registro para cada persona que tenga la intención de ser examinada. No se requiere registro y se anima a los que no se inscriban a ser probados.

Las personas pueden indicar su idioma preferido al registrarse, lo que permite que el personal esté preparado con servicios de traducción de audio. La interpretación de video para individuos que usan el lenguaje de señas americano (ASL) también está disponible. Se recomienda que se hagan pruebas a las personas que presenten síntomas de COVID-19(fiebre, tos, dificultad para respirar, escalofríos, temblores repetidos con escalofríos, dolor muscular, dolor de cabeza, dolor de garganta y nueva pérdida de sabor o olor) y a las personas que sientan que han estado expuestas a COVID-19. Se recomienda esperar de 5 a 8 días después de la exposición para obtener los resultados más precisos. A las personas que soliciten pruebas fuera de este plazo se les puede pedir que vuelvan durante el período de 5 a 8 días.

El período de incubación para el COVID-19, la cantidad de tiempo que toma antes de que se
desarrollen los síntomas o que un individuo se vuelva contagioso, es de 2-14 días. Las pruebas
posteriores en el período de incubación aumentan la confianza en un resultado negativo. El sitio de pruebas funciona de lunes a viernes de 10:00 a.m. a 3:00 p.m. las inclemencias del tiempo pueden requerir pausas cortas en las operaciones para asegurar la seguridad del personal y de las personas que buscan pruebas. Las notificaciones de pausas de operación se publicarán en la página de Facebook del condado de Coconino y en la entrada del parque.

Las pruebas son gratuitas y se proporcionan en base a las primeras se reciben. Todos los que se
encuentran en el lugar de la prueba deben usar una máscara o una cubierta facial. Las pruebas
están destinadas a los residentes del Condado de Coconino, pero no se les dará la vuelta a las
personas. Para más información y recursos sobre COVID-19 por favor visite www.coconino.az.gov/covid19 o llame a la línea de Información COVID-19 del Condado al
928.679.7300 de lunes a viernes de 8 a.m. a 5 p.m.

Coconino County Health and Human Services (CCHHS) is encouraging individuals seeking COVID-19 testing at Fort Tuthill County Park, 2446 Fort Tuthill Loop, Flagstaff to register online at www.coconino.az.gov/covid19. Individuals who register will receive an authorization ticket to present at the testing site. Individuals unable to complete the registration online can contact the Call Center for assistance at 928.679.7300. Lines for testing at Fort Tuthill have been modest with wait times generally not exceeding one hour, however, registering before arrival further expedites the process. Those who register will have pre-printed labels and forms ready for them upon arrival, generally eliminating 5-10 minutes of wait time. Those who register before arriving are advised to complete a registration form for each individual intending to be tested. Registration is not required and those who do not register are still encouraged to be tested.

Individuals may indicate their preferred language when registering, allowing staff to be prepared with audio translation services. Video interpretation for individuals using American Sign Language (ASL) is also now available.

Individuals exhibiting COVID-19 symptoms (fever, cough, difficulty breathing, chills, repeated shaking with chills, muscle pain, headache, sore throat and new loss of taste or smell) and individuals who feel they have been exposed to COVID-19 are encouraged to be tested. Waiting 5 to 8 days following exposure is recommended in order to obtain the most accurate results.
Individuals requesting testing outside of this timeframe may be asked to come back during the 5 – 8-day window. The incubation period for COVID-19, the amount of time it takes before symptoms develop or an individual becomes contagious, is 2-14 days. Testing later in the incubation period increases the confidence in a negative result.

The testing site operates Monday through Friday from 10:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. Inclement weather may require short pauses in operations to ensure the safety of staff and individuals seeking testing. Notifications of operation pauses will be posted on the Coconino County Facebook page and at the park entrance.

Testing is free of charge and is provided on a first come first served basis. Everyone at the testing site is required to wear a mask or face covering. Testing is intended for Coconino County residents, but individuals will not be turned away. For more information and resources on COVID-19 please visit www.coconino.az.gov/covid19 or call the County COVID-19 Information Line at 928.679.7300 Monday through Friday 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.

The Arizona Department of Environmental Quality (ADEQ) is issuing a High Pollution Advisory (HPA) for ozone effective July 31, 2020, in the Phoenix area. ADEQ recommends that people limit outdoor activity while the HPA is in effect, especially children and adults with respiratory problems.

Ground level ozone forms when two types of pollutants—volatile organic compounds (VOCs) and nitrogen oxides (NOx)—react in sunlight. These pollutants come primarily from automobiles, but also from other sources including industries, power plants, and products, such as solvents and paints. Generally, the highest levels of ozone occur in the afternoon.

Health Impacts

People most vulnerable to the impacts of air pollution include children, older adults, adults exercising outdoors, people with heart or lung disease and those suffering from asthma and bronchitis. Exposure can increase the number and severity of asthma attacks, cause or aggravate bronchitis or other lung disease and reduce the body’s ability to fight infection. Symptoms may include itchy eyes, nose, and throat, wheezing, coughing, shortness of breath, chest pain and upper respiratory issues.

Please help reduce ozone by doing one or more of the following:

• Drive as little as possible
• Re-fuel your vehicle in the evening
• Avoid waiting in long drive-thru lines, if possible
• Use low-VOC (Volatile Organic Compounds) or water-based paints, stains, finishes and paint strippers – delay big painting projects
• Make sure containers of household cleaners, garage and yard chemicals and other solvents are sealed properly to prevent vapors from evaporating into the air

Sufficient monsoonal activity across the northern and southern portions of Arizona allow the Department of Forestry and Fire Management to lift fire restrictions within some state lands.

As of Thursday, July 30, fire restrictions will be lifted on state lands in Apache, Coconino – south of the Grand Canyon, Cochise, Graham, Greenlee, Navajo, Pima, Pinal, and Santa Cruz Counties. On Saturday, August 1, Arizona Forestry will also lift restrictions on state land in Yavapai County.

However, restrictions remain in place on state lands within, Gila, La Paz, Maricopa, Mohave and Yuma Counties, along with Coconino, north of the Grand Canyon. Typically, the arrival of the summer monsoon storms provide increased humidity, ample moisture, and cooler temperatures to help decrease fire activity.

State fire managers feel lackluster monsoon conditions in the central region warrant restrictions to stay in place longer, and until, more ideal weather conditions are present.

As always, we encourage the public to be mindful of their surroundings and be careful outdoors:
- If campfires are allowed in an area, be sure to put them out completely before leaving the site
- If working outdoors use spark arresters and have a water source nearby
- Never burn on windy days
- Ensure tow chains are secure
- Check your vehicle thoroughly before getting on the road
- Never pull off into tall grasses
- Do not toss cigarettes out the window
- Fireworks and target shooting are not allowed on state lands at any time of the year

For more information, contact Tiffany Davila at 602-540-1036 or by email at [email protected]

The Tonto National Forest will rescind Stage 3 Fire Restrictions and implement Stage 1 Fire Restrictions at 8:00 am on July 31st  2020.  The onset of monsoon activity across the forest, and a decrease in fire danger have prompted fire officials to decrease fire restrictions. 

Apache Lake will reopen on July 31st 2020 at 8:00 am with Stage 1 Fire Restrictions in effect.

Stage 1 Fire Restrictions are as follows:

Pursuant to 16 U.S.C. § 551 and 36 C.F.R. § 261.50(a), the following acts are prohibited on all National Forest System lands within the Tonto National Forest in, Maricopa, Gila, Yavapai, and Pinal Counties, Arizona and as depicted on the Map attached hereto as Exhibit A.

1.      Igniting, building, maintaining, attending or using a fire, campfire, or stove fire other than in a developed campsite or picnic area. 36 C.F.R. § 261.52(a).

2.      Smoking, except within an enclosed vehicle or building, a developed recreation site, or while stopped in an area at least three (3) feet in diameter that is barren or cleared of any flammable material.  36 C.F.R. § 261.52(d).

3.      Discharging a firearm, air rifle, or gas gun. 36 C.F.R. § 261.58(m).

 Under Stage 1 Fire Restrictions, cooking devices that are fueled by liquid petroleum or LPG fuel, that can be turned off immediately with no remaining burning material may be used in safe areas devoid of vegetation. Recreational target shooting remains prohibited at this time, however, legal hunting activities are permitted in areas not affected by a closure order.

Fire officials use several criteria to determine when to modify fire restrictions, including current and predicted weather, fuel moistures, fire activity and available firefighting resources. The current monsoonal moisture has decreased fire danger levels to allow campfires and charcoal fires in developed campgrounds and picnic areas, but only in Forest Service rings and BBQs.  Open fires in dispersed recreation areas remain prohibited. 

Campfires, and charcoal BBQs must be completely extinguished after use.  Abandoned campfires continue to be a major cause of wildfires. Always keep enough water on hand, and a tool to drown and stir fires.  If it is too hot to touch, it is too hot to leave. 

Violators of the above restrictions are subject to fines and/or imprisonment.

For more information on Tonto National Forest Restrictions, and tips for responsible recreating, visit our website at https://www.fs.usda.gov/tonto, and follow us on Facebook and Twitter.

The Arizona Department of Environmental Quality (ADEQ) is issuing a High Pollution Advisory (HPA) for ozone effective July 30, 2020, in the Phoenix area. ADEQ recommends that people limit outdoor activity while the HPA is in effect, especially children and adults with respiratory problems.

Ground level ozone forms when two types of pollutants—volatile organic compounds (VOCs) and nitrogen oxides (NOx)—react in sunlight. These pollutants come primarily from automobiles, but also from other sources including industries, power plants, and products, such as solvents and paints. Generally, the highest levels of ozone occur in the afternoon.

Health Impacts

People most vulnerable to the impacts of air pollution include children, older adults, adults exercising outdoors, people with heart or lung disease and those suffering from asthma and bronchitis. Exposure can increase the number and severity of asthma attacks, cause or aggravate bronchitis or other lung disease and reduce the body’s ability to fight infection. Symptoms may include itchy eyes, nose, and throat, wheezing, coughing, shortness of breath, chest pain and upper respiratory issues.

Please help reduce ozone by doing one or more of the following:

• Drive as little as possible
• Re-fuel your vehicle in the evening
• Avoid waiting in long drive-thru lines, if possible
• Use low-VOC (Volatile Organic Compounds) or water-based paints, stains, finishes and paint strippers – delay big painting projects
• Make sure containers of household cleaners, garage and yard chemicals and other solvents are sealed properly to prevent vapors from evaporating into the air