Emergency Information
Sheridan Fire update: lower humidity prompts change in tactics
Slightly lower humidity yesterday prompted fire crews to change tactics due to the increase of fire behavior. Crews today will monitor and improve the fireline, benefitting from their earlier firing efforts.
Sheridan Fire Overview
Location: 23 miles Northwest of Prescott, AZ on the Chino Valley District (T16N, R6W, S16) Size:16,227
Percent Contained: 0%
Cause: Lightning
Vegetation: Pinyon-Juniper, Grass and Brush
Resources: Approx. 211 personnel including: 8-Engines, 4-Water Tenders, 4-Crews, 2-Helicopters, 4-Masticators, 1- Dozer
Current Situation:
Smoke once again appeared on the horizon as fire crews temporarily suspended firing operations in order to monitor and patrol the southwest section of the fire where the most activity occurred yesterday. With lower humidity expected to continue today tactics should remain the same as the fire continues to burn in overgrown chaparral. Helicopters have also suspended firing operations for today and will switch their focus to reconnaissance and mapping missions.
On the southeast section of the fire crews are working to improve contingency lines. While tactics for today have changed, the overall objective of resource benefits for more resilient vegetation and improved wildlife habitat remain the same. The fire, which was started from a lightning strike on August 5, continues to be allowed to fulfill its natural role.
There are no homes or structures threatened.
Closure: The area closure remains in effect over the Sheridan Fire area for firefighter and public safety. The closure area includes Camp Wood Road and the entire fire area south of Walnut Creek Road; however Walnut Creek Road remains open. Visitors and residents near the closure area should be alert for fire vehicles and equipment. A map and detailed description of the closure area are available on Inciweb and on the Prescott National Forest website.
Smoke:
Visible smoke may continue to increase today due to the lower humidity and increase in fire behavior. Incident-specific smoke monitors are in place near Paulden to monitor area impacts.
If smoke conditions increase today it is recommended that those more sensitive to smoke stay indoors with windows and doors closed, and bring pets inside.
Prescott Fire Information Phone: 928-925-1111
Prescott National Forest – Fire Closure Order & Map: https://www.fs.usda.gov/prescott
InciWeb: https://inciweb.nwcg.gov/incident/6522/
Prescott National Forest Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/PrescottNF/
Prescott National Forest Twitter: https://twitter.com/PrescottNF
Clair Fire on Tonto National Forest is 25 percent contained
The lightning caused Clair Fire was reported on Thursday, August 29. Burning in grass and desert shrub, it grew to approximately 670 acres yesterday afternoon because of outflow winds from nearby thunderstorms. The fire did not receive any rain, but the area was aided by an increase in humidity overnight. Firefighters on the ground with support from helicopter and airtankers, will work to continue securing the fire’s edge. Firefighters will be challenged by another day of excessive heat.
The North Lake Road (FR458), remains closed to protect public safety and allow firefighters to safely work near the road. This impacts the Bartlett Flats and SB Cove Shoreline camping areas, Yellow Cliffs Boat Launch, and Rattlesnake Cove Picnic site. There are currently no camping opportunities along Bartlett Lake due to the proximity of the Clair Fire. North Lake Road will be reopened as soon as the firefighters are not working in the area, and the fire no longer threatens recreation areas.
Location: Approximately 18 miles east/northeast of Cave Creek, near Bartlett Reservoir
Start Date: 8/29/2019
Size: 670 acres
Percent Contained: 25%
Cause: Lightning
Sheridan Fire update: Walnut Creek Rd. now open
Closure: The area closure remains in effect over the Sheridan Fire area for firefighter and public safety. The closure area includes Camp Wood Road and the entire fire area south of Walnut Creek Road. The Walnut Creek Road is now open. Visitors and residents near the closure area should be alert for fire vehicles and equipment. A map and detailed description of the closure area are available on Inciweb and on the Prescott National Forest website.
Smoke: Very little smoke was visible over the fire yesterday and the temporary air quality monitor in Paulden showed air quality being well into the good range all day. Smoke may visible over the fire today, particularly in the afternoon and early evening hours. Smoke impacts generally extend to the north and northeast of the fire area. Fire operations managers attempt to minimize smoke impacts when and where possible.
For additional fire information:
Prescott Fire Information Phone: 928-925-1111
Prescott National Forest – Fire Closure Order & Map: https://www.fs.usda.gov/prescott
InciWeb: https://inciweb.nwcg.gov/incident/6522/
Prescott National Forest Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/PrescottNF/
Prescott National Forest Twitter: https://twitter.com/PrescottNF
Sheridan Fire Overview
Location: 23 miles Northwest of Prescott, AZ on the Chino Valley District (T16N, R6W, S16)
Start Date: August 5, 2019
Current Size: 15,689 acres
Percent Contained: 0%
Cause: Lightning
Vegetation: Pinyon-Juniper, Grass, and Brush
Resources: Approx. 213 personnel including: 8 Engines, 4 Water Tenders, 4 Masticators, 3 Crews, 2 Helicopter
High Pollution Advisory issued for ozone effective August 30 and 31 and September 1 in the Phoenix area
The Arizona Department of Environmental Quality (ADEQ) is issuing a High Pollution Advisory (HPA) for ozone effective August 30 and 31 and September 1 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 > | Google Play >
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 >
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 >
Ozone Fact Sheet | View >
FIND THE FORECAST
ADEQ Hourly Air Quality Forecast | View >
Text or Email Alerts | Subscribe >
Air Arizona Mobile App | Learn More >
Smoke from Sheridan Fire may be visible over Prescott and Tri-City area today
Current Situation: Yesterday the Sheridan Fire increased to over 15,000 acres, mainly due to hand and aerial ignitions along the western edge of the fire containment line. The aerial ignitions are being done by plastic incendiary devices that resemble ping pong balls. These are fired from a helicopter or unmanned drone and ignite the vegetation on the ground. Today fire crews will again work on firing between the main fire and the western containment line.
Late yesterday afternoon fire crews had to suspend operations and move out of the areas where they were working due to the frequent lightning strikes in the area. They sheltered in their vehicles until the storms moved away.
Closure: An area closure remains in effect over the Sheridan Fire area for firefighter and public safety. The closure area includes Camp Wood Road and the entire fire area south of Walnut Creek Road. The Walnut Creek Road is now open. Visitors and residents near the closure area should be alert for fire vehicles and equipment. A map and detailed description of the closure area are available on Inciweb and on the Prescott National Forest website.
Smoke: Smoke was noticeable over the fire yesterday afternoon into the evening. Smoke may visible over most of the Prescott and Tri-City area again today, particularly in the afternoon and early evening hours. Smoke impacts extend mainly to the north and northeast of the general fire area. Fire operations managers attempt to minimize smoke impacts when and where possible. There is a temporary smoke monitor in Paulden which showed air quality to be in the good range yesterday except for a brief period around 11:00 a.m.
For additional fire information:
Prescott Fire Information Phone: 928-925-1111
Prescott National Forest – Fire Closure Order & Map: https://www.fs.usda.gov/prescott
InciWeb: https://inciweb.nwcg.gov/incident/6522/
Prescott National Forest Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/PrescottNF/
Prescott National Forest Twitter: https://twitter.com/PrescottNF
Sheridan Fire Overview
Location: 23 miles Northwest of Prescott, AZ on the Chino Valley District (T16N, R6W, S16)
Start Date: August 5, 2019
Current Size: 15,689 acres
Percent Contained: 0%
Cause: Lightning
Vegetation: Pinyon-Juniper, Grass, and Brush
Resources: Approx. 212 personnel including: 8 Engines, 4 Water Tenders, 4 masticators, 4 Crews, 2 Helicopters
Mosquitoes test positive for West Nile virus in second Coconino County location
Coconino County Health and Human Services (CCHHS) officials confirmed a second mosquito pool has tested positive for West Nile virus (WNV). The mosquito sample was taken from the Cheshire area in northwest Flagstaff.
Recently, a mosquito sample from an area south of Lake Mary Road in Flagstaff tested positive for WNV. No human cases have been reported in Coconino County since 2010 when two human cases where identified.
CCHHS staff has applied a non-toxic larvicide treatment to reduce mosquito populations in water pools in the affected areas and in other locations in the County. CCHHS will continue trapping and testing mosquitoes in areas where there is mosquito activity until colder weather returns. Although these are the only areas where mosquitoes have tested positive this year, WNV is endemic and could be present in other areas throughout the County.
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, insect repellent containing DEET, Picaridin, Oil of Lemon Eucalyptus or PMD -the synthesized version of oil of lemon eucalyptus, and IR3535 typically provide reasonably long-lasting protection.
People are encouraged to take the following precautions to prevent mosquito bites.
- Mosquitoes that carry WNV are most active at dusk and dawn. Stay indoors during these times or wear shoes and socks, long pants and a long-sleeved shirt when outdoor.
- Use screens on windows and doors. Repair holes in screens to keep mosquitoes outdoors.
- Use air conditioning, if available.
- Stop mosquitoes from laying eggs near your home. Once a week, empty and scrub, turn over, cover, or throw out items that hold water, such as tires, buckets, planters, toys, pools, birdbaths, flowerpots, or trash containers.
People should continue taking preventive measures until cold weather returns and mosquito activity diminishes in the fall.
Most people (8 out of 10) infected with WNV do not develop any symptoms. Symptoms and signs of West Nile virus include fever, headache, body aches, skin rash and swollen lymph nodes. If people experience symptoms, they should contact a healthcare provider.
There is no specific treatment for WNV other than supportive care, and there is no vaccine available for humans. A WNV vaccination is available for horses. CCHHS encourages horse owners to discuss vaccinations with their veterinarian.
For more information or to report any concerns, call the Coconino County Health and Human Services Environmental Health office at 928-679-8750 or toll free 1-877-679-7272.
Reward for escapees wanted for murder. Additional tip hotline.
On Monday, Aug. 26, homicide suspects; Blane Barksdale (56) and Susan Barksdale (59) escaped custody while being extradited from New York to Pima County, Arizona.
During transport, Blane and Susan Barksdale overpowered two security officers in Blanding, Utah. Blane and Susan Barksdale are wanted in connection with the murder of a 72 year old man on April 2019, in Tucson, Arizona.
Blane Barksdale has multiple tattoos on his arms and hands. The Barksdales were last seen driving a red GMC Sierra truck (Arizona License Plate: 127XTY) with damage to the front passenger side and rear bumper. Blane and Susan Barksdale are believed to be armed and dangerous and should not be approached.
REWARD: THE U.S. MARSHALS SERVICE IS OFFERING A REWARD OF UP TO $10,000 (PER FUGITIVE) FOR INFORMATION LEADING TO THEIR ARREST.
The U.S. Marshals Service, FBI, Tucson Police Department and numerous other law enforcement agencies are assisting in this investigation.
Anyone with information about the whereabouts of the Barksdales can call the FBI Tipline at 1-800-CALL-FBI (225-5324), you can also call 88-Crime or 911 immediately.
The United States Marshals Service is the nation’s oldest federal law enforcement agency. Annually,
U.S. Marshals arrest more than 50 percent of all federal fugitives and serve more federal warrants than all other federal agencies combined. For more information on USMS Fifteen Most Wanted fugitives and USMS Major Cases, go to www.usmarshals.gov.
New mobile app with hourly air quality forecasts for Phoenix, Tucson, Yuma and Nogales
The Arizona Department of Environmental Quality (ADEQ) launched new hourly forecasts for Phoenix, Tucson, Yuma, Nogales and surrounding areas on the Air Arizona mobile app. These forecasts can be used to help residents and visitors better plan their outdoor activities through the day to minimize the impacts of air pollution.
“A team of meteorologists at ADEQ creates the hourly forecasts every morning,” said acting Air Quality Division Director Daniel Czecholinski. “Our meteorologists provide expertise on the factors that affect air quality, producing a more accurate picture of how it fluctuates through the day and impacts people’s daily lives and that of their families.”
Download Today | Apple Store > | Google Play >
Available in English and Spanish, Air Arizona provides information for the following areas of the state:
- Phoenix, Tucson, Yuma, Nogales and surrounding areas
- Hourly air quality forecasts for the next 5 days
- Alerts sent to your device’s home screen when a High Pollution Advisory or Health Watch is in effect
- Tips for how you can help improve air quality | 5 Things You Can Do To Help Improve Air Quality >
- Globe/Miami and Hayden/Winkelman
- Air quality forecasts, alerts and notifications sent to your device’s home screen for pollutants emitted during mineral processing activities
- Pollution reduction efforts
- Historical pollution data
Stay informed | Make a difference | Breathe easier | Be Air Aware >
Crews fire along western containment line of Sheridan Fire
Current Situation: Yesterday fire crews succeeded in igniting vegetation along the western edge of the Sheridan Fire containment line, although the increased humidity in the afternoon caused the fire to not burn as actively as anticipated. The fire now exceeds 13,000 acres. Today fire crews will again work on firing along the western containment line.
There was a new lightning-caused fire start yesterday just to the east of the Sheridan Fire within the fire area. Firefighters are suppressing that fire rather than allowing it to assist the forest in restoration efforts as they are the Sheridan Fire. Each fire is a bit different and fire managers evaluate each new start to determine whether to immediately suppress it or allow it to burn naturally. The new start was not in an area where resources would benefit greatly from fire at this time.
Closure: A closure area remains in effect over the Sheridan Fire area for firefighter and public safety. The closure area includes Camp Wood Road and the entire fire area south of Walnut Creek Road, though Walnut Creek Road is now open. Visitors and residents near the closure area should be alert for fire vehicles and equipment. A map and detailed description of the closure area are available on Inciweb and on the Prescott National Forest website.
Smoke: Because of the planned burning today, smoke from the Sheridan Fire may be more noticeable, although the humidity will likely keep the fire from becoming very active. Smoke may visible over most of the Prescott and Tri-City area, particularly in the afternoon and early evening hours. Smoke impacts extend mainly to the north and northeast of the general fire area. Fire operations managers attempt to minimize smoke impacts when and where possible.
Location: 23 miles Northwest of Prescott, AZ on the Chino Valley District (T16N, R6W, S16)Start Date: August 5, 2019
Size: 13,489 acres
Percent Contained: 0%
Cause: Lightning
Vegetation: Pinyon-Juniper, Grass, and Brush
Resources: Approx. 216 personnel including: 10-Engines, 4-Water Tenders, 1-Dozer, 3-Crews, 2-Helicopters
For additional fire information:
Prescott Fire Information Phone: 928-925-1111
Prescott National Forest – Fire Closure Order & Map: https://www.fs.usda.gov/prescott
InciWeb: https://inciweb.nwcg.gov/incident/6522/
Prescott National Forest Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/PrescottNF/
Prescott National Forest Twitter: https://twitter.com/PrescottNF
Sheridan Fire exceeds 11,000 acres
Current Situation: The Sheridan Fire has exceeded 11,000 acres and continues to burn through the brush and grass in a remote area north of Prescott. There was not a great deal of fire activity yesterday and smoke was relatively light. The next couple of days are forecast to have slightly higher temperatures and lower humidity so fire crews are planning to use the opportunity to conduct burning operations between the fire and the western containment line. This is intended to increase the effectiveness of the containment line and restore fire to the ecosystem.
Firefighters will be using drip torches while helicopters and unmanned drones may drop self-igniting plastic spheres in the area. There is a temporary flight restriction around the fire area and it is critical that no other aircraft, manned or unmanned, be flying in the vicinity as it could cause serious accidents with the fire-related aircraft.
Closure: A closure area remains in effect over the Sheridan Fire area for firefighter and public safety. The closure area includes Camp Wood Road and the entire fire area south of Walnut Creek Road. Visitors and residents near the closure area should be alert for fire vehicles and equipment. A map and detailed description of the closure area are available on Inciweb and on the Prescott National Forest website.
Smoke:Because of the planned burning today and tomorrow, smoke from the Sheridan Fire will likely be more noticeable. Smoke may visible over most of the Prescott and Tri-City area, particularly in the afternoon and early evening hours. Smoke impacts extend mainly to the north and northeast of the general fire area. Fire operations managers attempt to minimize smoke impacts when and where possible.
For more fire information:
Prescott Fire Information Phone: 928-925-1111
Prescott National Forest – Fire Closure Order & Map: https://www.fs.usda.gov/prescott
InciWeb: https://inciweb.nwcg.gov/incident/6522/
Prescott National Forest Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/PrescottNF/
Prescott National Forest Twitter: https://twitter.com/PrescottNF
Sheridan Fire Overview
Location: 23 miles Northwest of Prescott, AZ on the Chino Valley District (T16N, R6W, S16)
Start Date: August 5, 2019
Size: 11,155 acres
Percent Contained: 0%
Cause: Lightning
Vegetation: Pinyon-Juniper, Grass, and Brush
Resources: Approx. 216 personnel including: 10-Engines, 4-Water Tenders, 1-Dozer, 3-Crews, 2-Helicopters
Sheridan Fire update; crews continue to reinforce containment features
The Sheridan Fire continues to burn through the brush and grass in a remote area north of Prescott. The fire has not expanded greatly over the past few days as slightly lower temperatures and increased humidity have moderated the fire’s behavior. Crews are continuing to reinforce containment features by burning the vegetation along roadways and other features identified as potential containment lines.
A closure order remains in effect over the Sheridan Fire area for firefighter and public safety. A map and detailed description of the closure are available on Inciweb and on the Prescott National Forest website. Visitors and residents near the closure area should be alert for fire vehicles and equipment.
Benefits of the Sheridan Fire: The Sheridan Fire is consuming much of the dead and decadent vegetation in the area. Like many lands in the U.S., particularly in the west, the area is greatly overgrown and unhealthy following decades of fire suppression. The Sheridan Fire area is historically fire adapted and requires periodic fire in order to remain vigorous, have a lesser risk of high severity fire, and to provide good quality habitat and forage for wildlife and livestock.
Fire can be devastating when it occurs in the wrong place or under the wrong conditions. Many of our forests and grasslands have become so overgrown and dense that when a fire occurs it burns all the vegetation leaving the soil sterile and unproductive. The Sheridan Fire area is burning predominantly in brush and grass and the conditions have been such that the fire is resulting mainly in a mosaic of burned and unburned vegetation.
Smoke: Smoke from the Sheridan was mostly light yesterday. Smoke may continue to be visible from Prescott and the Tri-City area during the afternoons and into the evening hours but should not be particularly heavy. Smoke impacts extend mainly to the north of the general fire area. Fire operations managers attempt to minimize smoke impacts when and where possible.
A smoke monitor has been installed in Paulden and it is showing air quality to have remained in the “good” range throughout the day yesterday. We will continue to monitor smoke and will post advisories if an unhealthy range is expected or detected.
Sheridan Fire Overview
Location: 23 miles Northwest of Prescott, AZ on the Chino Valley District (T16N, R6W, S16)
Start Date: August 5, 2019
Size: 10,497 acres
Percent Contained: 0%
Cause: Lightning
Vegetation: Pinyon-Juniper, Grass, and Brush
Resources: Approx. 237 personnel including: 10-Engines, 4-Water Tenders, 1-Dozer, 3-Crews, 2-Helicopters
For more fire information:
Prescott Fire Information Phone: 928-925-1111
Prescott National Forest – Fire Closure Order & Map: https://www.fs.usda.gov/prescott
InciWeb: https://inciweb.nwcg.gov/incident/6522/
Prescott National Forest Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/PrescottNF/
Prescott National Forest Twitter: https://twitter.com/PrescottNF
Additional sites added where individuals may have been exposed to measles in Maricopa County
Maricopa County Department of Public Health and Arizona Department of Health Services are continuing to investigate locations where a teenage visitor may have exposed others to measles.
Below is a full list of all exposure sites known at this time, including dates and times of risk. Newly-confirmed sites where the individual was infectious are in bold.
August 9, 2019
- Arizona Grand Resort & Spa, 8000 Arizona Grand Pkwy, Phoenix (whole day)
August 10, 2019
- Arizona Grand Resort & Spa, 8000 Arizona Grand Pkwy, Phoenix (whole day)
- Arizona Mills Mall, 5000 S Arizona Mills Circle, Tempe, 11:30AM-5PM
- Gila River Arena for World Hip Hop International Dance Championships, 9400 W Maryland Ave, Glendale, 6:30PM
August 11, 2019
- Arizona Grand Resort & Spa, 8000 Arizona Grand Pkwy, Phoenix (until 7 pm)
- Arizona Mills Mall, 5000 S Arizona Mills Circle, Tempe, 11AM-6PM
- Harkins Theatre at Arizona Mills Mall, 5000 S Arizona Mills Circle, Tempe, 12:45PM-6:00PM
- Includes “Fast & Furious Presents: Hobbs & Shaw” showings at 1:15PM and 4:30PM
- Sky Harbor Airport, Terminal 2, 5PM-10PM
If you were at any of these locations during these dates and times, please monitor for symptoms.
If you develop symptoms, such as fever or an unexplained rash, stay home and contact a health care provider over the phone. Please let the healthcare provider know that you may have been exposed to measles.
There is no ongoing risk of measles at these locations at this time.
Please see Friday press release for more info.
This is an ongoing investigation, visit wearepublichealth.org for the most current list of locations where exposures occurred.
Closure order remains in effect over Sheridan Fire area for public safety
Current Situation:
The Sheridan Fire experienced little growth yesterday as temperatures have moderated somewhat and humidity has increased as fire in this vegetation type is very sensitive to fluctuations in temperature and humidity. Fire crews will be burning along the western side of the fire to reduce fuels in that area. Fire mangers are pleased with the fire effects they are seeing on the ground.
Crews continue to work on securing and improving control lines and scouting for additional containment opportunities. Roads, trails, and natural barriers are being used as control features. Masticators will continue to work in select areas to clear vegetation to enhance the effectiveness of control features. Firefighters are continuing to use a helicopter and agency operated drones to monitor fire activity as access to the immediate fire area is limited, mostly due to lack of road access and the rough and rugged terrain.
A closure order remains in effect over the Sheridan Fire area for firefighter and public safety. A map and detailed description of the closure are available on Inciweb and on the Prescott National Forest website. Visitors and residents outside the closure area should be alert for fire vehicles and equipment.
Smoke:
Smoke from the Sheridan was relatively slight yesterday. Smoke may continue to be visible from Prescott and the Tri-City area during the afternoons and into the evening hours but should not be particularly heavy. Smoke impacts extend mainly to the north of the general fire area. Fire operations managers attempt to minimize smoke impacts when and where possible.
A smoke monitor has been installed in Paulden and it is showing air quality to have remained in the “good” range throughout the day yesterday. We will continue to monitor smoke and will post advisories if an unhealthy range is expected or detected.
For more fire information, see:
Prescott Fire Information Phone: 928-925-1111
Prescott National Forest – Fire Closure Order & Map: https://www.fs.usda.gov/prescott
InciWeb: https://inciweb.nwcg.gov/incident/6522/
Prescott National Forest Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/PrescottNF/
Prescott National Forest Twitter: https://twitter.com/PrescottNF
Sheridan Fire Overview
Location: 23 miles Northwest of Prescott, AZ on the Chino Valley District (T16N, R6W, S16)
Start Date: August 5, 2019
Size: 9826 acres
Percent Contained: 0%
Cause: Lightning
Vegetation: Pinyon-Juniper, Grass, and Brush
Resources: Approx. 237 personnel including: 10-Engines, 4-Water Tenders, 1-Dozer, 3-Crews, 2-Helicopters
Command of Ikes Fire transitions to Type 4 Team, closures remain in place
The Ikes Fire, which has been managed by a Local Type 3 Incident Management Team (IMT), transitioned to a local Type 4 Incident Commander effective this morning, Sunday, August 25. This will be the Final Ikes Fire News Release unless significant fire activity occurs. For any future updates on the Ikes Fire, visit Inciweb at https://inciweb.nwcg.gov/incident/6475/.
Today the Type 4 IMT will continue to downsize resources. Crews will be released from the Ikes Fire and made available to assist with other wildfires across the nation. Remaining resources will patrol and hold the fire perimeter to ensure the fire remains within the planning area.
Drier weather conditions have led to additional growth on the Ikes Fire, which is now approximately 6,192 acres. The lightning-caused wildfire is actively burning within a 7,785-acre planning area. The main fire will move throughout the planning area and produce smoke until significant moisture is received. The Ikes Fire is being utilized to fulfill its natural role within a fire-dependent ecosystem while providing for point protection of identified sensitive natural and cultural resources. Resource objectives include reducing hazardous fuels, promoting forest regeneration, improving wildlife habitat, and restoring more open forest understory. These objectives will lead to a healthier and more resilient landscape.
Over the past two days, firefighters made progress with firing operations along Forest Road 223. This tactic is conducted to strengthen and improve the northern boundary perimeter. Crews will move along the southern boundary, using hand ignitions to create a buffer as the main fire naturally advances to the west. Once the fire has moved throughout the planning area, smoke may still be visible from within the interior as fire moves through unburned vegetation.
Dry conditions and daytime temperatures that are slightly above average will persist over the fire site through the next few days. Precipitation is not currently in the forecast.
The North Rim Village and businesses are open. However, road and trail closures are in effect for the Ikes Fire planning area for Grand Canyon National Park and the Kaibab National Forest. The following roads and trails are closed on the North Rim:
-Powell Plateau Trail, The North Bass Trail, Fire Point, Swamp Point, and the W4 road north of the intersection of the W4 and W1 Roads.
Smoke from the Ikes Fire, along with other fires in the area, will be visible throughout the area and may cause smoke impacts. Visitors traveling to the area should be aware of possible smoke along State Highway 67. Visitors are asked to drive carefully and turn headlights on for safety. For local air quality and related information, please visit the following websites:
www.airnow.gov or the Smoke Management Division of the Arizona Department of Environmental Quality.
More information can be found at Inciweb at https://inciweb.nwcg.gov/incident/6475/.
Please visit https://www.nps.gov/grca/learn/management/firemanagement.htm for additional information about wildland fire at Grand Canyon National Park or call 928-638-7819 for recorded fire information.
For fire information on the Kaibab National Forest, visit www.fs.usda.gov/kaibab or @KaibabNF on Facebook and Twitter or call (928) 635-8311 for recorded fire information.
Sheridan Fire Update – Increased Humidity Moderates Fire Behavior
A slight rise in humidity in the Sheridan fire area has helped to moderate fire behavior and limit its growth. Fire crews were kept busy yesterday working indirectly, creating a buffer, enhancing control features, such as roads, trails, and natural features, north of the Camp Wood Road and in the area near Brush Mountain. For detailed information on the closure area and current fire perimeter maps visit InciWeb.
Sheridan Fire Overview
Location: 23 miles Northwest of Prescott, AZ on the Chino Valley District (T16N, R6W, S16)
Start Date: August 5, 2019
Size: 9,449
Percent Contained: 0%
Cause: Lightning
Vegetation: Pinyon-Juniper, Grass and Brush
Resources: Approx. 225 personnel including: 9-Engines, 2-Water Tenders, 3-Handcrews, 2-Helicopters
Current Situation:
The fire continues to burn in overgrown chaparral, grass and brush. The higher humidity has slowed the fire spread. Firefighters continue to work to create buffers and enhance control features such as roads, trails, adjacent to resources such as Yolo Ranch and cultural sites in the area, in an effort to protect them by either slowing or containing the advancing edge of the fire. Firefighters are currently working south along the 702 road. A helicopter will be flying the fire perimeter today conducting a mapping mission to account for yesterdays limited fire growth.
The fire continues to be allowed to fulfill its natural role while firefighters continue to provide for point protection of cultural and natural resources. Utilizing the lightning-caused fire for resource benefit will improve wildlife habitat and restore more open forest understory with grasses and forbs.
There are no homes or structures threatened.
Closures:
An expanded closure order is in effect over the fire area which now includes the area south of Williamson Valley and Walnut Creek Road within the Forest Boundary. Wednesday’s fire activity forced the closure of the Camp Wood Road within the Forest Boundary. The expanded closures are being staffed by security and barricades. A map and detailed description of the new closure area are available on Inciweb and on the Prescott National Forest website.
Smoke:
Visible smoke will continue to decrease today due to the moderated decrease in fire behavior due to the increase in humidity. Incident specific smoke monitors are in place near Paulden to monitor area impacts.
While smoke conditions should continue to decrease today, for those more sensitive to smoke, we recommend staying indoors with windows and doors closed and bringing pets inside.
Prescott Fire Information Phone: 928-925-1111
Prescott National Forest – Fire Closure Order & Map: https://www.fs.usda.gov/prescott
InciWeb: https://inciweb.nwcg.gov/incident/6522/
Prescott National Forest Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/PrescottNF/
Prescott National Forest Twitter: https://twitter.com/PrescottNF
Boulin Fire is 75 percent contained
The 4039 acre Boulin Fire on the Williams Ranger District of the Kaibab National Forest has exhibited no additional growth and is not expected to increase in size. This lightning caused fire was very successful in meeting the overall intent to reintroduce fire back into the ponderosa pine landscape for the purpose of restoring forest health, and ensuring long term sustainability.
With public and firefighter safety being the number one objective, Incident Commander Tyler Richwine was pleased to report there were no accidents or injuries, and there were no losses or damage to any resources or private property throughout the duration of this 18 day incident.
BOULIN FIRE OVERVIEW
Start Date: August 5, 2019.
Cause: Lightning.
Location: East of Spring Valley near The Beale Wagon Trail and forest roads 141, 713, and 730.
Current Size: 4039 acres.
Containment: 75%
Incident Commander: Tyler Richwine ICT4T.
Resources: One - Type 3 Engine, one-Patrol unit, and four-Miscellaneous overhead. Total personnel assigned is 10.
Current Status: The Boulin fire has reached its maximum growth potential at 4039 acres. There has been no movement on the perimeter and officials predict no additional acres will burn.
Firefighters will remain on scene for several more days as the burn area cools to ensure containment lines hold and to mitigate any hazards that may still exist. This will be the final update on the Boulin Fire unless conditions change.
Smoke: Some smoke may linger as fuels within the interior continue to consume however good ventilation will occur throughout the day with very little residual impacts to the surrounding area.
Additional information about the Boulin Fire, and the Kaibab National Forest can be obtained through the following sources:
· InciWeb inciweb.nwcg.gov/incident/6511/
· Twitter: www.twitter.com/KaibabNF
· Kaibab Facebook: www.facebook.com/KaibabNF
· Kaibab website “Recent News”: www.fs.usda.gov/kaibab
· Fire Information Recorded Phone line: 928-635-8311
Measles Exposure Linked to World Hip Hop Dance Championship in Maricopa County
Today, Maricopa County Department of Public Health and Arizona Department of Health Services learned that a teenage international traveler competing in the World Hip Hop Dance Championship at the Arizona Grand Resort in August has tested positive for measles and may have exposed others to the disease.
“Public Health is continuing to gather information on locations where this person may have visited during her time in Maricopa County. Measles is highly contagious and can expose individuals up to 2 hours after an infected individual has left the room,” said Dr. Rebecca Sunenshine, medical director for disease control at Maricopa County Public Health. “Because of this, it is important that anyone who was in the same place as this person, monitor for measles for 21 days after the exposure.”
Sunenshine added, “If you haven’t developed symptoms by Sept. 2, you are in the clear.”
As of today, Public Health has confirmed that this individual was infectious with measles at the following locations, dates and times:
- Arizona Grand Hotel, 8000 Arizona Grand Pkwy, Phoenix from Aug. 9-Aug. 11
- Sky Harbor Airport, Terminal 2, Aug 11 between 5 pm and 10 pm
THIS IS AN ONGOING INVESTIGATION. PLEASE VISIT WEAREPUBLICHEALTH.ORG FOR AN UPDATED LIST OF LOCATIONS WHERE EXPOSURES OCCURRED.
Anyone who develops symptoms, such as fever or an unexplained rash, is urged to stay home and contact a health care provider over the phone. Please let the healthcare provider know that you may have been exposed to measles.
Measles is a highly-contagious, vaccine-preventable viral illness spread through coughing, sneezing, and contact with secretions from the nose, mouth, and throat of an infected individual. Measles virus can survive in the air for hours and may be transmitted to susceptible individuals even after an infected individual is no longer in the room/area. You may be protected from measles if you were immunized with 2 doses of MMR (Measles, Mumps and Rubella) vaccine or if you have previously had the disease. Healthcare providers are required to report suspect cases of measles to Maricopa County Department of Public Health.
Symptoms:
- Typically appear 7-12 days after exposure to measles but may take up to 21 days
- Begin with fever (101 F or higher), red, watery eyes, cough and runny nose
- Followed by a rash that is red, raised, and blotchy. The rash typically begins on the face at the hairline and moves down the body. The rash may last for 5-6 days and may turn brownish.
People who have depressed immune systems may have a rash that does not fit the description above.
What to do if you think you have measles:
If you have a healthcare provider, contact him/her by phone and let them know that you may have been exposed to measles. They will let you know when to visit their office so as not to expose others in the waiting area.
If you do not have a health care provider, you may need to be seen at your local hospital emergency room/urgent care center. Please call before going to let them know you may have measles.
For more information on measles’ signs and symptoms or where you may find vaccine, please visit www.WeArePublicHealth.org.
Mulch Fire in Camp Verde likely to smolder for long time
Ikes Fire holding after tested by winds
Over the past two days, firefighters made progress with firing operations along Forest Road 223. This tactic is conducted to strengthen and improve the northern boundary of the planning area. Crews continue to move along the southern boundary, using hand ignitions to create a buffer as the main fire advances to the west. Yesterday the fire was tested by gusty, erratic winds but continued to spread as expected at a low to moderate rate.
Over the next few days, the Ikes Fire will begin to right-size resources. Crews will be released from the fire as objectives are met and made available to assist with other wildfires in the country. Remaining resources will patrol and hold the fire perimeter to ensure the fire remains within the planning area. The fire has spread across approximately 5,932 acres within the 7,785-acre planning area, and has 61 resources assigned.
One objective of the Incident Management Team is to allow fire to move through the 7,785-acre planning area for resource benefit. Naturally-ignited wildland fires play an important role in fire-adapted ecosystems by reducing dead wood accumulations to ash and releasing nutrients that stimulate new plant growth, and helping to regulate insect and disease levels. These fires also create a mosaic of burned and unburned vegetation, which increases habitat diversity and breaks up continuous fuels on the forest floor (branches, fallen trees, etc.) which can help limit or slow the intensity and spread of large wildfires in the future. The Ikes Fire poses no danger to structures or local infrastructure.
Predicted forecast for Friday and Saturday is generally dry with slightly cooler temperatures and breezy conditions. Temperatures will begin to warm back up as we move into next week. There is no rain predicted in the near future.
Smoke from the Ikes Fire, along with other fires in the area, will be visible throughout the area and may cause smoke impacts. Visitors traveling to the area should be aware of possible smoke along State Highway 67. Visitors are asked to drive carefully and turn headlights on for safety. It is recommended that anyone with sensitivity to smoke limit their time outdoors when smoke is present. For local air quality and related information, please visit the following websites: www.airnow.gov or the Smoke Management Division of the Arizona Department of Environmental Quality.
The North Rim Village and businesses are open. However, road and trail closures are in effect for the Ikes Fire planning area for Grand Canyon National Park and the Kaibab National Forest. The following roads and trails are closed on the North Rim:
Powell Plateau Trail, The North Bass Trail, Fire Point, Swamp Point, and the W4 road north of the intersection of the W4 and W1 Roads.
More information can be found at Inciweb at https://inciweb.nwcg.gov/incident/6475/.
Please visit https://www.nps.gov/grca/learn/management/firemanagement.htm for additional information about wildland fire at Grand Canyon National Park or call 928-638-7819 for recorded fire information.
For fire information on the Kaibab National Forest, visit www.fs.usda.gov/kaibab or @KaibabNF on Facebook and Twitter or call (928) 635-8311 for recorded fire information.
Health Watch issued for ozone effective August 24 in the Phoenix area
The Arizona Department of Environmental Quality (ADEQ) is issuing a Health Watch (HW) for ozone effective August 24, 2019, in the Phoenix area. ADEQ recommends that people limit outdoor activity while the HW 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, 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 >
