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URL: https://ein.az.gov/emergency-information/emergency-bulletins
Updated: 35 min 33 sec ago

Woodbury Firefighters Successful in Protecting Values at Risk

56 min 35 sec ago
Notice: The Incident Management Team will have a Community Meeting on Sunday, June 16 at 2:00 pm at the Roosevelt Baptist Church, located on State Highway 188, Roosevelt, AZ 85545.   Today: Firefighters patrolled the south end of the fire to ensure that it remained north of the 509 road and within the wilderness boundary. Crews continued to reinforce the southwest edge of the fire with the help of helicopter water bucket drops on hot spots. There was minimal fire activity on the western side of the Woodbury Fire throughout today’s operational period. On the northwest side of the fire, crews were successful in keeping it from crossing over Highway 88. Burnout operations between Tortilla Flat and Tortilla Trailhead to keep the fire south of Highway 88 were successful. The terrain beyond the eastern edge of the fire, consists of very rocky outcrops and sparse vegetation. These conditions will help slow the fire’s progression. There are currently no threats to the communities of Queen Valley Estates, Gold Canyon, Kings Ranch, Superior, and Apache Junction. Firefighting efforts on the north end of the fire will concentrate on protecting campgrounds, infrastructure, powerlines, and businesses along State Highway 88.   The Tonto National Forest has implemented fire restrictions. Please visit: https://firerestrictions.us/az/ for additional information.   The Southwest Area Type 1 Incident Management Team would like to remind the public “If You Fly We Can’t!” Flying drones or unmanned aircraft systems (UAS) near a wildfire is ILLEGAL. In 2018 UAS incursions shut down aerial firefighting efforts at least 23 times.   Closures: State Highway 88 from Needle Vista east to the junction of State Highway 88 and State Highway 188. The closure includes: Tortilla Flat, Canyon Lake, Apache Lake, and campsites along State Highway 88 within the road closure area. The following areas remain open and accessible to the public: Lower Salt River, Saguaro Lake, Roosevelt Lake, and Bartlett Lake.   Containment: Despite continued work by firefighters, aircraft, and heavy equipment, due to rugged terrain and fire behavior, containment remains at zero percent. Containment is defined as: the status of a wildfire suppression action signifying that a control line has been completed around the fire, and any associated spot fires, which can reasonably be expected to stop the fire's spread.

Efforts Remain Focused on Keeping Woodbury Fire Away from Values at Risk

10 hours 31 min ago

Notice: The Incident Management Team will have a Community Meeting on Sunday, June 16 at 2:00 pm at the Roosevelt Baptist Church, located on State Highway 188, Roosevelt, AZ 85545.

Yesterday: Acreage increased on the Woodbury Fire due to an unpredicted morning weather event know as a “dryline”. This occurs when two different air masses (one hot, one cold) come together to create unstable weather resulting in high winds. The fire grew significantly as a result of these winds pushing the fire to the northwest. To slow the spread of the fire to the southwest and northwest, five air tankers and five helicopters made repeated water and retardant drops. Crews successfully conducted burnout operations south of Tortilla Flat trailhead keeping the fire south of State Highway 88.   Today: Firefighters will continue to patrol the south end of the fire to ensure the fire remains primarily within the wilderness boundary and minimize impact to the Sonoran Desert. Crews working on the western side of the fire will be focused on structure protection. There are currently no threats to the communities of Queen Valley Estates, Gold Canyon, Kings Ranch, Superior, and Apache Junction. Firefighting efforts on the north end of the fire will concentrate on protecting campgrounds, infrastructure, powerlines, and businesses along State Highway 88.   The Tonto National Forest has implemented fire restrictions. Please visit: https://firerestrictions.us/az/ for additional information.   Closures: State Highway 88 from Needle Vista east to the junction of State Highway 88 and State Highway 188. The closure includes: Tortilla Flat, Canyon Lake, Apache Lake, and campsites along State Highway 88 within the road closure area. The following areas remain open and accessible to the public: Lower Salt River, Saguaro Lake, Roosevelt Lake, and Bartlett Lake.   Containment: Despite continued work by firefighters, aircraft, and heavy equipment, due to rugged terrain and fire behavior, containment remains at zero percent. Containment is defined as: the status of a wildfire suppression action signifying that a control line has been completed around the fire, and any associated spot fires, which can reasonably be expected to stop the fire's spread.   Donations: Any groups wishing to make donations are encouraged to contact your local fire departments or charities.

Woodbury Fire Progresses Further North

Fri, 06/14/2019 - 20:59
Today: Crews continued to monitor the eastern edge of the fire where it has slowly moved onto Iron Mountain. In the southwest corner near Buzzard Roost, the fire crossed from National Forest land onto State land. The fire’s spread onto State land was limited to a few acres due to the quick response by firefighters and aerial resources. Aerial resources assisted firefighters by strategically dropping retardant and limiting the fire spread. There are currently no threats to the communities of Queen Valley Estates, Gold Canyon, Kings Ranch, Superior, and Apache Junction. The Woodbury Fire also made a run to the northwest towards Tortilla Flat trailhead and State Highway 88 west of Fish Creek Vista, prompting the partial closure of State Highway 88 and some recreational areas. The following road and area closures are in place until further notice.   Closures: State Highway 88 from Needle Vista east to the junction of State Highway 88 and State Highway 188. The closure includes: Tortilla Flat, Canyon Lake, Apache Lake, and campsites along State Highway 88 within the road closure area. The following areas remain open and accessible to the public: Lower Salt River, Saguaro Lake, Roosevelt Lake, and Bartlett Lake.   Containment: Despite continued work by firefighters, aircraft, and heavy equipment, due to the current fire conditions and fire behavior, containment remains at zero percent. Containment is defined as: the status of a wildfire suppression action signifying that a control line has been completed around the fire, and any associated spot fires, which can reasonably be expected to stop the fire's spread.   Donations: The Incident Management Team and all assigned resources are self-sufficient and do not have needs for food, equipment or monetary donations. Any groups wishing to make donations are encouraged to contact your local fire departments or charities.

Fire Restrictions Begin on Tonto National Forest, Saturday, June 15

Fri, 06/14/2019 - 16:35

Target shooting is prohibited while fire restrictions are in place, fireworks and explosives are prohibited year-round

Hot temperatures and increased fire danger have prompted fire officials to implement fire restrictions for the Tonto National Forest beginning 8:00 am, Saturday, June 15, 2019. Most types of fire or fire-causing activities are prohibited across the entire Tonto National Forest.   Building, maintaining, attending or using a fire, campfire or charcoal-burning device is prohibited outside of metal fire rings and metal pedestal grills provided by the Forest Service in developed recreation sites (see attached list). The use of petroleum-fueled stoves, lanterns, and heating devices are allowed.   Restrictions also apply to operating internal combustion power tools, using welding equipment or torches with open flames, operating combustion engines without spark-arresting devices in effective working order and meeting either USDA or SAE (Society of Automotive Engineers) standards.   Discharging a firearm is prohibited, except for taking game in accordance with Arizona hunting laws.   Smoking is prohibited except within an enclosed vehicle or building, or a developed recreation site. Please deposit the remains in an ashtray or inside a building. Do not toss or discard on the ground.   “Arizona’s record wet winter has created a carpet of grasses which are now cured and dry due to the recent high temperatures” said Tonto National Forest Supervisor Neil Bosworth. “Implementing these fire restrictions will help prevent human-caused wildfires, decreasing unnecessary exposure to firefighters.”   “We are reminding the public that fireworks and the use of exploding targets are always prohibited National Forests in Arizona and New Mexico,” emphasized Rocky Gilbert, Acting Tonto National Forest Fire Management Officer.   Violation of these fire restrictions is punishable by a fine of up to $5,000 and imprisonment for up to six months.   For more information regarding forest recreation sites and fire restrictions on the Tonto National Forest, contact the Tonto National Forest at (602) 225-5200, or online at www.fs.usda.gov/tonto.   For information on current fires burning in Arizona visit Inciweb, and visit the Arizona Fire Restrictions website to view all fire restrictions in Arizona.   Campfires are allowed in metal fire rings and metal pedestal grills provided by the Forest Service in the following developed recreation sites:   Cave Creek Ranger District Bartlett Lake Recreation Area o Bartlett Lake Marina o Rattlesnake Cove o SB Cove parking lot ramadas with metal charcoal pedestals grills o Yellow Cliff parking lot ramadas with metal charcoal pedestals grills o Seven Springs Recreation Area o Springs Group Site o CCC Campground   Lower Verde Recreation Area o Needle Rock Day Use Picnic Area   Globe Ranger District o Timber Camp Equestrian Group Site o Timber Camp Campground – Brundrett #1 and Brundrett #2 o Jones Water Campground o Oak Flat Campground o Kellner Group Recreation Site o Icehouse CCC Picnic Site o Sulphide Del Rey Campground o Pinal Campground o Upper Pinal Campground o Pioneer Pass Campground   Mesa Ranger District o Saguaro Del Norte o Butcher Jones o Acacia o Boulder o Laguna o Palo Verde o Granite Reef o Phon D Sutton o Coons Bluff o Saguaro Lake Marina o Canyon Lake Marina o Pebble Beach o Blue Point o Sheep’s Crossing o Water Users o Larry Forbis Group Site   Payson Ranger District o Houston Mesa Campground o Houston Mesa Horse Camp o Ponderosa Campground and Group Sites o Christopher Creek Campground and Group Site o Sharp Creek Campground and Group Sites o Lower Tonto Creek Campground o Upper Tonto Creek Campground   Tonto Basin Ranger District o Apache Lake Marina o Vineyard Picnic Site o Roosevelt Lake Marina RV Campground o Frazier Campground o Frazier Group Site o Windy Hill Campground o Cholla Campground o Grapevine Campground o Cottonwood Picnic Site o Schoolhouse Campground o Burnt Corral Campground

Woodbury Fire Burned Actively Through the Night

Fri, 06/14/2019 - 14:26

Yesterday: There was minimal growth on the southwest portion of the fire. The fire remains active and is within the Tonto National Forest boundary. At night the fire visually appears to be closer than it actually is. It is approximately 11 miles northeast of Gold Canyon.

Today, crews continue to assess the area to identify and protect values-at-risk. There are currently no threats to the communities of Queen Valley Estates, Gold Canyon, Kings Ranch, Superior, and Apache Junction. On the northern portion of the fire, fire activity has increased resulting in growth towards State Highway 88. As a precautionary measure, road and area closures are in place (effective immediately) until further notice.

Closures: State Highway 88 from Needle Vista east to the junction of State Highway 88 and State Highway 188. The closures will also include:

• Tortilla Flat

• Canyon Lake

• Apache Lake

• Campsites along State Highway 88 within the road closure area

The following areas remain open and accessible to the public:

• Lower Salt River

• Saguaro Lake

• Roosevelt Lake

• Bartlett Lake

Donations: Many members of surrounding communities have expressed interest in supporting firefighting efforts. The Incident Management Team and all assigned resources are self-sufficient and do not have needs for food, equipment or monetary donations. Any groups wishing to make donations are encouraged to contact your local fire departments or charities.

 

Woodbury Fire closes SR 88 from Apache Junction area to Roosevelt Lake

Fri, 06/14/2019 - 12:41

The Woodbury Fire has closed both directions of State Route 88 from two miles northeast of Apache Junction to State Route 188 at Roosevelt Lake, according to the Arizona Department of Transportation. The closure near Apache Junction is at Weavers Needle Vista Viewpoint, milepost 203.

An extended closure is possible. During the closure, travelers from the Phoenix area can reach Roosevelt Lake by using US 60 and SR 188, or SR 87 and SR 188.

Real-time highway conditions are available on ADOT’s Arizona Traveler Information site at az511.gov, by calling 511 and through ADOT’s Twitter feed,@ArizonaDOT. When a freeway closure or other major traffic event occurs, our free app available at ADOTAlerts.com will send critical information directly to app users in affected areas – where possible, in advance of alternate routes.  

For more information in the Woodbury Fire visit: https://inciweb.nwcg.gov/incident/6382/

ADEQ issues a High Pollution Advisory for ozone effective June 15, 2019, in the Phoenix area

Fri, 06/14/2019 - 12:11

The Arizona Department of Environmental Quality (ADEQ) is issuing a High Pollution Advisory (HPA) for ozone effective June 15, 2019 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 | View >

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, carpool, use public transit or telecommute
  • Re-fuel your vehicle in the evening
  • Avoid waiting in long drive-thru lines, for example, at coffee shops, fast-food restaurants or banks – park your car and go inside
  • 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!

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 >

CONTACTS

Arizona Department of Environmental Quality (ADEQ) | Provides hourly forecasts for air quality in certain areas of the state and issues HPAs or HWs when the appropriate conditions exist.

View Website >

Public Information Officer | 602-771-2215 (office) | 602-540-8072 (cell) | Email >

FIND THE FORECAST

ADEQ Hourly Air Quality Forecast | View >

Text or Email Alerts | Subscribe > 

Steady Progress on Woodbury Fire

Thu, 06/13/2019 - 19:48

Firefighters continue to steadily make progress around the perimeter of the Woodbury Fire. The southeast corner is cold, and no smoke was seen Thursday afternoon.

Farther south, crews continue to improve contingency lines to protect Pinto Valley and Silver King mines, Miles Ranch, Tony Ranch, and Clark Ranch.

The southwestern corner of the fire moved towards state lands Thursday but remains in the Wilderness near Dripping Springs. The fire is active there because the higher temperatures dried out the vegetation that now contains less than one percent moisture. With excessive heat, the grasses are actively burning.

Further out from the southwest corner of the fire, crews are improving contingency lines. These lines consist of roads and natural features. The goal is to improve and join lines from Elephant Butte to Forest Road 172. Other crews worked today to improve fireline from Quarter Circle Ranch to Peralta Trail. A group of firefighters are assigned to protect structures; and today, they worked on protection of the Circle U Ranch and about a dozen homes in the Elephant Butte area.

Tomorrow, crews will focus on holding the fire within the Wilderness boundary. The weather will be hot at 105 and 20 mile-per-hour wind gusts.

Official fire information, including updates, photos and maps can be found on the Inciweb website at https://inciweb.nwcg.gov/incident/6382/. Information will also be shared through the Tonto National Forest Facebook Page: www.facebook.com/TontoNationalForest/ and Twitter: @TontoForest. The new Fire Information phone number is 505-399-2439.

No Donations Please: The Arizona communities have shown great generosity and interest in the fire, however, donations of baked goods, food, and other commodities are not allowed due to health guidance procedures. The Incident team encourages residents to visit with their local volunteer firefighters, city firefighters, the United Way or Red Cross.

Woodbury Fire Type 1 Team working closely with local state, county, and community organizations

Thu, 06/13/2019 - 18:27

The Type 1 Southwest Area Incident Management Team (Team 2) is working closely with local state, county, and community organizations. Our partners are helping the firefighting operations in the following ways:

The Pinal County Sheriff’s Office is the chief law enforcement entity throughout unincorporated areas of the county. The Sheriff’s Office also assists in evaluation of potentially dangerous events and will assist in evacuations, if needed. “We are very fortunate that there are no homes or people threatened at this time. We are thankful for the around-the-clock efforts that fire personnel and the Forest Service are making to contain the Woodbury Fire,” said Sheriff Mark Lamb. “My deputies will support them in any way we can. We ask that the public avoid the area to allow fire personnel to do their jobs.”

The Pinal County Office of Emergency Management will be working in concert with the Southwest Area IMT to help deliver information out to the community as well as with County agencies that have messages for the public related to the fire such as air quality or other public health issues. In addition, Emergency Management will be working with the Team and the Sheriff’s Office in the unlikely event of evacuation notifications. “To receive emergency notifications about the Woodbury Fire as well as other notifications in the future, we encourage members of the community to register with the Pinal Emergency Notification System by going to www.pinalcountyaz.gov/EmergencyManagement and sign up today,” said Chuck Kmet, Emergency Manager for Pinal County.

As a nearby city with many services, the City of Apache Junction is poised to play a crucial supportive role in the battle against this fire with resources for visiting firefighters and fire managers. The city has also put in place a network of community leaders to share information on the fire to keep the area up to date on the operation and the fire’s effects on citizens and visitors. Residents are already expressing their gratitude for those fighting this blaze in extremely challenging conditions.

Apache Junction Unified School District serves approximately 3,500 students in grades K-12 in Apache Junction, Gold Canyon and parts of Queen Valley. The District includes Apache Junction High School, Cactus Canyon Junior High, Desert Vista and Four Peaks elementary schools in Apache Junction and Peralta Trail Elementary School (PTES) in Gold Canyon. The District is supporting the crew and staff fighting the Woodbury Fire by allowing them to use PTES as an Incident Commander Center and by sharing their messaging to our parents, students, staff and community.

 

Follow these Red Cross Steps for a Safe 4th of July Holiday

Thu, 06/13/2019 - 12:53

The 4th of July holiday is just around the corner and many of us will take time off to enjoy a long weekend of summer fun. The American Red Cross wants everyone to have a great holiday and offers safety steps people can follow.

FIREWORKS

The safest way to enjoy fireworks is to attend a public firework show put on by professionals. Stay at least 500 feet away from the show. Leave any area immediately where untrained amateurs are using fireworks.

If you are setting fireworks off at home, follow these safety steps:

  • Never give fireworks to small children, and never throw or point a firework toward people, animals, vehicles, structures or flammable materials.
  • Always follow the instructions on the packaging.
  • Keep a supply of water close by as a precaution.
  • Make sure the person lighting fireworks always wears eye protection.
  • Light only one firework at a time and never attempt to relight "a dud."

BARBECUE SAFETY

Keep perishable foods in a cooler with plenty of ice or freezer gel packs. Wash your hands before preparing the food. Don’t leave food out in the hot sun. If you are going to cook on a grill, follow these steps:

  • Always supervise a barbecue grill when in use. Don’t add charcoal starter fluid when coals have already been ignited.
  • Never grill indoors — not in your house, camper, tent or any enclosed area.
  • Make sure everyone, including pets, stays away from the grill.
  • Keep the grill out in the open and away from the house, the deck, tree branches or anything that could catch fire. 
  • Use the long-handled tools especially made for cooking on the grill to help keep the chef safe.

HEAT SAFETY



Never leave children or pets in your vehicle. The inside temperature of the car can quickly reach 180 degrees.

  • Stay hydrated, drink plenty of fluids. Avoid drinks with caffeine or alcohol. Wear loose-fitting, lightweight, light-colored clothing. Avoid dark colors as they absorb the sun’s rays.
  • Avoid extreme temperature changes.
  • Slow down, stay indoors. Avoid strenuous exercise during the hottest part of the day. Postpone outdoor games and activities.
  • Use a buddy system when working in excessive heat. Take frequent breaks if working outdoors.
  • Check on family, friends and neighbors who do not have air conditioning, who spend much of their time alone or who are more likely to be affected by the heat.

Temporary closure implemented for Coldwater Fire area

Thu, 06/13/2019 - 09:27

Coconino National Forest leadership has issued a temporary closure order for public safety for the Coldwater Fire area where interior pockets of unburned fuel will continue to have fire activity.

The temporary closure could be rescinded before the Sept. 1 expiration date if conditions warrant it. The closure was issued to ensure visitors to the forest are kept out of harm’s way as pockets of unburned forest fuels are scattered throughout the interior of the fire's perimeter.

The western boundaries of the closure are state Route 87 from the intersection with Forest Road 300 to the northeast intersection of SR87 and FR 141. FR 141 is the northern and eastern boundary of the closure area to the point where it intersects with FR 300. The southern boundary is FR 300 between FR 141 and SR 87. Although state Route 87 and FR 141 and 300 are the boundaries, they remain open to public travel. The entire closure order is listed on the forest website athttps://go.usa.gov/xmJFV

Firefighters have completed the burnout operations on the Coldwater Fire, and the fire now encompasses about 16,800 acres. Smoke from this fire will begin to dissipate over the next few days, though some unburned fuels, heavier logs and stumps may continue to flame and smolder for weeks.

More Coldwater Fire information is available on Inciweb at https://inciweb.nwcg.gov/incident/6363. Immediate updates of notable fire activity and smoke impacts are shared on the Coconino National Forest’s Twitter and Facebook sites, and on the Forest’s website, which can be found atwww.coconinonationalforest.us.

Additional resources arriving on Woodbury Fire

Wed, 06/12/2019 - 21:58

Location of Origin: 5 miles Northwest of Superior, AZ, Tonto National Forest

Start Date: June 8, 2019

Size: 9300 acres

Percent Contained: 0%

Cause: Human Caused, Under Investigation

Fire Information Line: 505-399-2439

Email: [email protected]

Website: https://inciweb.nwcg.gov/incident/6382/

Facebook: www.facebook.com/TontoNationalForest/

Twitter: @TontoForest

Additional Resources Arriving on Woodbury Fire

The Type 1 Southwest Area Incident Management Team (Team 2) has taken command of the Woodbury fire, located within the Tonto National Forest.

On Wednesday, resources scouted the perimeter of the fire to find places to safely build fireline. They also visited surrounding communities to find the best strategy to protect homes, subdivisions, ranches, power lines, and other structures. The goal is to box–in the fire and keep it from impacting values at risk. Crews are also minimizing the impacts, where possible, to the fragile and scenic Sonoran Desert ecosystem.

Most of the activity Wednesday was on the western and southern edges of the fire towards Forest Road 172.

There was moderate fire activity on the northern edge within the boundary of the Superstition Wilderness, with heat at Roger’s Canyon.

Thursday brings severe weather of excessive heat and increased winds. Smoke is expected to increase.

Firefighter and public safety are the Team’s highest priority.

Many different fire personnel, engines, supplies and equipment have been ordered to assist with firefighting efforts.

Official fire information, including updates, photos and maps can be found on the Inciweb website at https://inciweb.nwcg.gov/incident/6382/. Information will also be shared through the Tonto National Forest

Facebook Page: www.facebook.com/TontoNationalForest/ and Twitter: @TontoForest.

The new Fire Information phone number is 505-399-2439.

Type 1 Incident Management Team Takes Command of Woodbury Fire, Will Hold Public Meeting Tonight in Gold Canyon

Wed, 06/12/2019 - 11:17

The Type 1 Southwest Area Incident Management Team (Team 2), led by Incident Commander Rich Nieto, has taken over management of the Woodbury Fire as of 6 AM this morning. Firefighter and public safety are the Team’s highest priority. This highly experienced team has the skill set and resources to manage the complexity of this incident. They will continue to fully suppress this fire while minimizing the impacts, where possible, to the fragile and scenic Sonoran Desert ecosystem.

The fire was active yesterday with the increased temperatures and dryer conditions. Most of the activity was on the western and southern edges of the fire towards Forest Road 172. Burnout operations conducted last night on the west side of Forest Road 172 were successful in keeping the fire from spreading east.

There was moderate fire activity on the northern edge within the boundary of the Superstition Wilderness. Accessibility by firefighters to several areas is limited due to the rough terrain, making it difficult to fight the fire directly. With hot and dry conditions predicted for today, fire activity and smoke is expected to increase.

A Community Meeting will be held today Wednesday, June 12th at 6:00 p.m. at the United Methodist Church in Gold Canyon located at 6640 South Kings Ranch Road, Gold Canyon, AZ 85118. Incident Management Team personnel will provide an update on the management of the Woodbury Fire.

No evacuations are in place on this incident and no communities are threatened. Any warning notices or evacuations will be coordinated through the Pinal County Sheriff’s office via the Pinal County Emergency Management Office. Official fire information, including updates, photos and maps can be found on the Inciweb website at https://inciweb.nwcg.gov/incident/6382/. Information will also be shared through the Tonto National Forest Facebook Page: www.facebook.com/TontoNationalForest/ and Twitter: @TontoForest. The new Fire Information phone number is 505-399-2439. 

High Pollution Advisory issued for ozone effective June 12 in Yuma area

Tue, 06/11/2019 - 13:14

The Arizona Department of Environmental Quality (ADEQ) is issuing a High Pollution Advisory (HPA) for ozone effective June 12 in the Yuma 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 | View >

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, carpool, use public transit or telecommute
  • Re-fuel your vehicle in the evening
  • Avoid waiting in long drive-thru lines, for example, at coffee shops, fast-food restaurants or banks – park your car and go inside
  • 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!

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 >

 

High Pollution Advisory issued for ozone effective June 2019 in Phoenix area

Tue, 06/11/2019 - 13:08

The Arizona Department of Environmental Quality (ADEQ) is issuing a High Pollution Advisory (HPA) for ozone effective June 12 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 | View >

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, carpool, use public transit or telecommute
  • Re-fuel your vehicle in the evening
  • Avoid waiting in long drive-thru lines, for example, at coffee shops, fast-food restaurants or banks – park your car and go inside
  • 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!

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 >

 

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 >

Ozone Fact Sheet | View >

ADEQ Hourly Air Quality Forecast | View >

Text or Email Alerts | Subscribe > 

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Red Cross safety tips for staying safe during monsoon season

Tue, 06/11/2019 - 12:01

While summer brings the promise of HOT weather and trips to the pool, it also brings a variety of conditions that can include thunderstorms, heavy rain, severe weather and an increased risk of flooding. The American Red Cross wants everyone to know what steps they can take to stay safe if potentially dangerous weather is predicted in your community.

HEAVY RAIN & FLOOD SAFETY TIPS:

· Turnaround, don’t drown! If you must drive and you encounter a flooded roadway, turn around and go another way.

· If you are caught on a flooded road and waters are rising rapidly around you, get out of the car quickly and move to higher ground.

· Tune into your local radio, NOAA radio or news channels for the latest updates.

· If your neighborhood is prone to flooding, be prepared to evacuate quickly.

· Follow evacuation orders and do not attempt to return until officials say it is safe.

· If power lines are down, do not step in puddles or standing water.

· If power is out, use a flashlight. Do not use any open flame as alternate lighting.

HOW TO PREPARE FOR A SEVERE THUNDERSTORM

· Put together an emergency kit.

· Know your community’s evacuation plan.

· Create a household disaster plan and practice it.

· Purchase a battery-powered or hand-crank radio

· Discuss thunderstorm safety with members of your household. Be aware that a thunderstorm could produce flooding.

· Pick a safe place in your home for household members to gather during a thunderstorm. This should be a place where there are no windows, skylights, or glass doors, which could be broken by strong winds or hail and cause damage or injury.

Everyone is encouraged to download the free Red Cross Emergency App to access real-time information about the storm, shelter locations, and hurricane safety tips. The app also allows impacted residents to send a Safe and Well alert to family and friends. The Emergency App is available in app stores by searching for the American Red Cross or going to redcross.org/apps.

Coldwater Fire to produce poor visibility along SR87, smoky conditions in surrounding communities

Tue, 06/11/2019 - 11:55
Smoke from yesterday’s burnout operations on the Coldwater Fire combined with moisture from a storm cell passing through the area to create dense smoke with low visibility overnight.   Motorists traveling along state Route 87 should expect smoke to be moderate to heavy at the intersection of SR87 and Lake Mary Road each morning between 3 a.m. and 9 a.m. Heavy fire traffic along SR87 is also possible at times, so motorists are encouraged to stay in their lane and follow pilot cars. Intermittent smoke is possible each afternoon, in and around the fire location and along SR87, between mileposts 283 and 293.   Smoky conditions in Pine should improve by late morning as southwest winds develop over the fire, pushing smoke toward the northeast. Smoke moving toward the northeast could impact areas along Interstate 40, including Winslow and Holbrook, where moderate air quality is possible during morning hours and will improve during the afternoon.   Air quality in these areas Wednesday morning could briefly drop to moderate or unhealthy for sensitive groups. For more information about how smoke from fires can affect your health, please visit www.airnow.gov/index.cfm?action=smoke.index. 

Woodbury Fire now at 1,400 acres

Mon, 06/10/2019 - 16:21

Location: Approximately 5 miles northwest of Superior, burning in the Superstition Wilderness

Nearest town is Superior, Arizona

Start Date:   Saturday, June 8, 2019

Size:   1,400 acres

Percent Contained:  0%

Cause:  human caused

Summary:  The Woodbury Fire is burning in the Superstition Wilderness, northwest of Superior, Arizona.  The fire is actively burning within the wilderness, and can be seen by nearby communities. Three crews and five engines are currently assigned to the Woodbury Fire, and additional resources have been ordered.  The Superstition Wilderness is extremely steep and rugged, and the fire is burning in an area with thick brush, making direct suppression tactics a safety concern for firefighting personnel.

The public is again being asked to avoid the Woodbury and Roger’s Trough trailheads and roads in the area to allow firefighters to safely work building fire lines.

Smoke will continue to be visible from US Highway 60 and the communities surrounding the Superstition Wilderness.

Facebook: @TontoNationalForest

Twitter: @TontoForest

Inciweb  Woodbury Fire Information https://inciweb.nwcg.gov/incident/6382/

High Pollution Advisory issued for ozone effective June 11 in the Yuma area

Mon, 06/10/2019 - 16:00

The Arizona Department of Environmental Quality (ADEQ) is issuing a High Pollution Advisory (HPA) for ozone effective June 11, 2019 in the Yuma 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 | View >

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, carpool, use public transit or telecommute
  • Re-fuel your vehicle in the evening
  • Avoid waiting in long drive-thru lines, for example, at coffee shops, fast-food restaurants or banks – park your car and go inside
  • 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!

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 >

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 >

Ozone Fact Sheet | View >

North Zone fire managers announce locations scheduled for prescribed burning

Mon, 06/10/2019 - 15:55

Fire managers for the North Kaibab Ranger District of the Kaibab National Forest are tracking opportunities to pursue three prescribed fires at various locations across the district through the end of this month. Pending the appropriate fuel moistures and weather conditions, fire managers anticipate having an opportunity to begin burning in about one to two weeks and possibly continue into monsoon season.

"We recognize that this year's forest conditions are unique and don't necessarily align with the trends we are used to typically seeing this time of year here on the Kaibab plateau, but with near record moisture levels this winter and spring we may now have an opportunity to implement prescribed fire treatments into early summer," said Dave Veater, acting fuels assistant fire management officer for the North Zone.

Areas that could be treated are as follows:

Moquitch 1 Prescribed Fire: The unit is located about 3 miles south by southwest of Jacob Lake and is approximately 2,104 acres in size.  Boundaries for this unit will include dozer line to tie into FR260 and FR262C on the north, FR212 on the south, FR640 on the east, and FR642 on the west.

Moquitch 3 (Phase 2) Prescribed Fire: The unit is located about 5.5 miles south of Jacob Lake and is approximately 1,440 acres in size. Boundaries for this unit will include FR212 on the north, FR259 on the south, FR259 on the east, and FR462 on the west.

Tipover West Prescribed Fire: The unit is 3 miles east of Fire point about 6.5 miles west of Arizona Highway 67 along the North Kaibab Ranger District and North Rim Grand Canyon National Park boundary and is approximately 2,032 acres in size. Boundaries for this unit will include FR223 on the north, FR268 on the east and south, and FR223 on the west.

During prescribed fire operations, community members and visitors may see fire personnel and vehicles in the vicinity. Smoke may also be present and may result in short-duration impacts to populated areas. For more information on local air quality resources, please visithttps://www.airnow.gov/.

As a reminder, all prescribed burning on the Kaibab National Forest is subject to approval by the Arizona Department of Environmental Quality and appropriate weather conditions. For additional information on the Smoke Management Division of the ADEQ and to view prescribed burns authorized on any given day, please visit http://www.azdeq.gov/environ/air/smoke/index.html. 

Additional fire information for the Kaibab National Forest may be obtained through the following sources:

·         Fire Information Recorded Hotline: 928-635-8311

·         Twitter: www.twitter.com/kaibabnf

·         Kaibab Facebook: www.facebook.com/KaibabNF/

·         Kaibab website “Recent News”: www.fs.usda.gov/kaibab

·         Kaibab North Zone Rx Fire: https://inciweb.nwcg.gov/incident/6383/