Arizona Emergency Information Network

Effective Thursday, May 5 the following agencies will implement campfire and smoking restrictions:  

• Bureau of Land Management (BLM) Phoenix and Colorado River Districts;  
• Coconino, Kaibab [Williams and Tusayan Ranger Districts], Prescott, Tonto, and Apache-Sitgreaves National Forests; 
• Arizona Department of Forestry and Fire Management as it relates to state trust lands in Coconino County south of the Grand Canyon, Mohave, La Paz, Yavapai, Yuma, Maricopa, Gila, Graham, Greenlee, Apache, and Navajo counties.  

Beginning May 5, 2022, and until rescinded, the following are prohibited: 

• Building, maintaining, attending, or using a fire, campfire, charcoal, coal, or wood stove fire, except within a developed recreation site, or improved site. 
• Smoking, except within an enclosed vehicle or building. Smoking is prohibited in all federal buildings.  

In addition, the BLM Phoenix and Colorado River Districts, Prescott and Tonto National Forests will implement the following restriction, which temporarily prohibits recreational target shooting: 

• Discharging a firearm, air rifle or gas gun, except while engaged in a lawful hunt pursuant to state, federal, or tribal law, and regulations. 

Fireworks and exploding targets are never allowed on federal and state trust lands. Recreational target shooting is prohibited year-round on state trust lands.  

Pressurized liquid or gas stoves, lanterns and heaters possessing shut-off devices are allowed. When using a portable stove, make sure the area is clear of grasses and other fine fuels. Prevent stoves from tipping and starting a fire. 

Residents and visitors should check with respective county and municipal governments for information on fire restrictions in those jurisdictions. 

National Park Service and U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service units across Arizona maintain similar fire restrictions as those being implemented, year-round. Variations are possible, and visitors should check with the unit’s visitor center for area-specific restrictions and regulations. 

Violation of restrictions is punishable by fine, imprisonment or both. Violators may also be held personally responsible for reimbursement of fire suppression costs. 

To prevent wildfires, never throw cigarettes out of a vehicle window. Use an ashtray instead. Never park a vehicle over dry grass as the catalytic converter can ignite the vegetation. Make sure your vehicle is in good operating condition, tires are well inflated, and check for any dragging metal or chains from towed trailers. 

Fire conditions as well as localized closures and restrictions are subject to change. Tribal, federal, state, and local mandates are different, they may have some differences in their restriction notices. For a more detailed explanation concerning agency restrictions and fire information in general, please contact the nearest land management agency office where you plan to work or play or visit http://wildlandfire.az.gov 

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A Forest Service Burned Area Emergency Response (BAER) team began surveying the fire-affected areas within the Tunnel Fire perimeter this past Saturday.

BAER team assessments are rapid evaluations of post-fire conditions of the burned landscape. These assessments determine the level of risk from potential flooding and debris flow, and calculate how these risks will affect both human safety and the natural and cultural resources in the area.
 
The Tunnel Fire BAER team, led by Forest Service Hydrologist Brendan Waterman, will conduct field surveys, and use science-based models to rapidly evaluate and assess the burned area.

BAER is an emergency program for stabilization work. These time-critical activities aim to conclude before the first damaging storm.
 
BAER teams typically consist of scientists and specialists including hydrologists, geologists, soil scientists, road engineers, botanists, wildlife and fisheries biologists, archaeologists, recreation and trails specialists, and geographic information specialists, from both federal and state agencies. BAER teams work together during the burned area surveys, field data analysis and modeling phase, to present findings along with recommended treatments to the forest supervisor.
 
BAER teams analyze the data collected during field surveys to produce a “soil burn severity” map. This is the first step in assessing potential watershed impacts from wildfires to values that may be at-risk from potential increased flooding, sedimentation, debris flows and rockslides.

BAER teams produce a report that includes a description of the assessment and findings for the burned area’s post-fire conditions along with recommended emergency stabilization measures and actions. BAER emergency stabilization efforts are focused on the protection of human life, safety and property, as well as critical cultural and natural resource values.

For more information, please visit the Tunnel Fire BAER InciWeb site at inciweb.nwcg.gov/incident/8088/.

Red flag conditions tested containment lines Sunday on the fire with strong southwest winds and low relative humidity.  Blowing ash and dust were present with some interior pockets of fuels producing smoke.  The hard work of firefighters paid off as containment lines held during 44 mph wind gusts.  The fire area did not expand, and containment increased to 75%.  

On Sunday, crews continued to focus on structure protection and finished thinning of vegetation along Senator Highway. This was to provide a fire break which will help provide protection to communities for years to come. Heavy equipment is being used to repair road damage in preparation for re-population of evacuated neighborhoods, when conditions are safe, and the Sheriff approves.

But this fire is not out yet, and as baseball great Yogi Berra said, ‘it ain’t over til it’s over.’ The weather remains dry, and the forest is parched by drought. Firefighters will be patrolling, monitoring and mopping-up hot spots on the Crooks Fire on Monday and every day until containment reaches 100%. People living in the wildland-urban interface are encouraged to thin vegetation for defensible space around homes. YavapaiFirewise.org is a good resource for help.

WEATHER: Dry and breezy Monday with southwest winds 10-20 mph. Minimum humidity should be around 20%. Gusts near 30 mph are possible Tuesday as a low-pressure system passes through Central Arizona.

SMOKE INFORMATION: Residents can monitor current conditions for the Crooks Fire, via Arizona Smoke Forecasting system located at https://azdeq.gov/wildfireforecast?fire=crooksfire

EVACUATIONS: Several areas remain in both the “READY” and “SET” status. Residents should continue to monitor the Yavapai County Sheriff’s Department Facebook page for additional information. https://www.facebook.com/YavapaiCountySheriff/

FOREST CLOSURE: To provide public health and safety due to firefighting operations and fire danger associated with the uncontrolled Crooks Fire the Prescott National Forest has expanded the fire area emergency closure to the south. To view the Crooks Fire area closure order and map visit: Prescott National Forest - Alerts & Notices (usda.gov)

A Temporary Flight Restriction (TFR) is in place: Wildfires are a NO Drone Zone. Flying recreational and media drones within a TFR is illegal and impedes fire suppression efforts. Report drones to local law enforcement. If You Fly, We Can’t! 

Fire Details

• Location: 11 nautical miles south of Prescott-Bradshaw Ranger District (T12N, R2W, SEC 1), near Mt Union.
• Start Date: April 18, 2022
• Size: Approximately 9402 acres, 75% Containment                            
• Cause: Under Investigation
• Vegetation: Timber (Litter and Understory), Chaparral (6 feet)                 
• Number of Personnel Assigned: 826

A Burned Area Emergency Response (BAER) team is being established to begin a burned area assessment of the Crooks wildfire on the Bradshaw Ranger District. BAER assessments are rapid evaluations of the burned area to identify unacceptable risks on National Forest Service (NFS) lands from post-fire threats. The team’s focus is on the emergency actions necessary to protect life and safety, property and critical natural and cultural resources on NFS lands. The team is working in conjunction with the Yavapai County Flood Control District and shares burned area information from the assessment with other federal, state and local agencies with post-fire responsibilities on state and private lands both within and downstream of burned areas, including USDA Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS), National Weather Service (NWS), and US Geological Survey (USGS).

BAER teams consist of scientists and specialists including hydrologists, geologists, soil scientists, engineers, botanists, biologists, archaeologists, and geographic information specialists. The teams collect data during ground surveys and complete GIS and modeling to evaluate the post-fire risks. The first step in the BAER assessment process is taking satellite imagery and data collected during ground surveys to produce a soil burn severity map. The soil burn severity provides the baseline information to determine changed watershed conditions for assessing potential watershed impacts from wildfires, such as flooding and unstable soils. This information is then compiled to determine if post fire emergency conditions are present.  The order of emergency response strategies includes natural recovery, administrative closure, then land treatments if unacceptable risks are identified.

Everyone near and downstream from the Crooks Fire burned area should remain alert and stay updated on weather conditions that may result in heavy rains over the area. Flash flooding could occur quickly during heavy rain events.

REMINDER: The Crooks Fire Area Closure is still in effect on the Prescott National Forest. Detailed information and maps are available on InciWeb at https://inciweb.nwcg.gov/incident/8067/.  For additional information related to the closure please call Crooks Fire Information at (928) 925-1111

Saturday was a success for firefighters on day 13 of the Crooks Fire. Smoke was minimal and the fire grew by only 9 acres. Crews from across Arizona and the nation working the fire made great progress protecting homes and holding the fire from moving north.  Firefighters on the day and night shifts focused on ‘firewise’ structure defense and preparing for Red Flag critical fire weather expected Sunday. Due to the hard work on the fire, hundreds of participants were able to join the Whiskey 50 bike race event that occurred across the Prescott National Forest.

Today’s critical weather will test the fire. Red Flag extreme fire conditions from 11am-7pm will bring gusty southwest winds and low humidity to challenge fire containment lines. Hot spots on the fire, stimulated by gusts, may become active and spread. The northwest side of the fire near Mt. Tritle, a priority, is heavily forested and full of dead and downed trees, stoking fire risks. Firefighters are on high alert, focused on safety. Slate Creek and Ash Creek Ridge above Crooks Creek are places of highest concern.

WEATHER: Today, strong southwest winds and low humidity will lead to a round of critical fire weather and a Red Flag Warning is in effect from 11:00am to 7:00pm MST. Expect southwest winds sustained around 20mph with gusts above 40mph near ridgetops and southwest aspects. Afternoon humidity could drop near 10%.

SMOKE INFORMATION:  Residents should be aware of increasing smoke conditions do to winds out of the south. Residents can monitor current conditions for the Crooks Fire, via Arizona Smoke Forecasting system located at https://azdeq.gov/wildfireforecast?fire=crooksfire

EVACUATIONS: Several areas remain in both the “READY” and “SET” status. Residents should continue to monitor the Yavapai County Sheriff’s Department Facebook page for additional information. https://www.facebook.com/YavapaiCountySheriff/

FOREST CLOSURE: To provide public health and safety due to firefighting operations and fire danger

associated with the uncontrolled Crooks Fire the Prescott National Forest has expanded the fire area emergency closure to the south. To view the Crooks Fire area closure order and map visit: Prescott National Forest - Alerts & Notices (usda.gov)

A Temporary Flight Restriction (TFR) is in place: Wildfires are a NO Drone Zone. Flying recreational and media drones within a TFR is illegal and impedes fire suppression efforts. Report drones to local law enforcement. If You Fly, We Can’t! 

Fire Details

• Location: 11 nautical miles south of Prescott-Bradshaw Ranger District (T12N, R2W, SEC 1), near Mt Union.
• Start Date: April 18, 2022
• Size: Approximately 9402 acres, 38% Containment                        
• Cause: Under Investigation
• Vegetation: Timber (Litter and Understory), Chaparral (6 feet)                 
• Number of Personnel Assigned: 857

Despite the winds and dry conditions there has been little fire progression along the perimeter, there are still areas of concern where firefighters are still actively fighting. Currently the priority remains on preventing the fire moving north on the northwest perimeter and protecting structures near Mount Tritle. With the assistance of Unmanned Aerial Systems (UAS) otherwise known as drones, firefighters have made significant progress in locating and extinguishing hot spots in and around the perimeter.

Like firefighters, drones are actively used for day and night operations.  Trained professionals, utilize this essential tool for fighting wildfires. These drones give firefighters a bird’s eye view of the terrain and can assist with determining where the fire moves next, allowing swift decisions can be made about where crews should go. It is illegal for the public deploy or utilize a personal Unmanned Aerial Systems (UAS) in a fire area to get a closer view of the fire. This can interfere with firefighting operations and place both pilots and firefighters lives in danger. During a wildfire incident a Temporary Flight Restrictions (TFR) around the fire and privately owned drones (UAS) can interfere with wildland fire air traffic, such as air tankers, helicopters, and other firefighting aircraft that are necessary to suppress wildland fires. Even the smallest drone (UAS) can cause a serious or fatal accident if it collides with firefighting aircraft and disrupts firefighting operations. 

Per the U.S. Code of Federal Regulations, 43 CFR 9212.1(f), it is illegal to resist or interfere with the efforts of firefighter(s) to extinguish a fire. Doing so can result in a significant fine and/or a mandatory court appearance. So, be smart and just don't fly your drone anywhere near a wildfire. No amount of video or photos are worth the consequences.

WEATHER: On Saturday, high pressure will bring a continuation of very dry conditions, but light southwest winds.

SMOKE INFORMATION:  Residents should be aware of increasing smoke conditions do to winds out of the south. Residents can monitor current conditions for the Crooks Fire, via Arizona Smoke Forecasting system located at https://azdeq.gov/wildfireforecast?fire=crooksfire

EVACUATIONS: Several areas remain in both the “READY” and ”SET” status. Residents should continue to monitor the Yavapai County Sheriff’s Department Facebook page for additional information. https://www.facebook.com/YavapaiCountySheriff/

FOREST CLOSURE: To provide public health and safety due to firefighting operations and fire danger

associated with the uncontrolled Crooks Fire the Prescott National Forest has expanded the fire area emergency closure to the south. To view the Crooks Fire area closure order and map visit: Prescott National Forest - Alerts & Notices (usda.gov)

A Temporary Flight Restriction (TFR) is in place: Wildfires are a NO Drone Zone. Flying recreational and media drones within a TFR is illegal and impedes fire suppression efforts. Report drones to local law enforcement. If You Fly, We Can’t! 

FIRE DETAILS

• Location: 11 nautical miles south of Prescott-Bradshaw Ranger District (T12N, R2W, SEC 1), near Mt Union.
• Start Date: April 18, 2022
• Size: Approximately 9393 acres, 38% Containment                                         
• Cause: Under Investigation
• Vegetation: Timber (Litter and Understory), Chaparral (6 feet)                  
• Number of Personnel Assigned: 889

Beginning Thursday, May 5 at 8:00 a.m., Stage 1 fire and smoking restrictions will be in effect on the Williams and Tusayan Districts (aka “South Zone”) of the Kaibab National Forest and the entirety of the Coconino National Forest.  

Under Stage 1 restrictions, fires, campfires, charcoal, coal, and wood stoves are prohibited, except within a developed recreation site. Smoking is also prohibited, except within an enclosed vehicle, building or a developed recreation site. Fireworks are always prohibited on all national forest and state lands.

Using a device that is solely fueled by pressurized liquid petroleum or LPG fuels that can be turned on and off is allowed in areas that are barren or cleared of all overhead and surrounding flammable materials within three feet of the device.

Fire restrictions are implemented to help prevent human-caused fires and to limit the exposure of visitors during periods of potentially dangerous fire conditions. Decisions about fire restrictions are based on a combination of carefully measured factors. Criteria used to determine when to implement restrictions include current and predicted weather, fuel moisture, fire activity levels, enduring drought, and available firefighting resources.

Additional restrictions could be forthcoming if conditions warrant. Fire restrictions typically remain in effect until the area receives significant, widespread precipitation.

Violations could result in mandatory appearance in a federal court, fines, or jail time.

The public is reminded to always be extra cautious when recreating on public lands, regardless of restrictions.

For information on all Arizona state and federal fire restrictions, including an interactive map, visit wildlandfire.az.gov/fire-restrictions.  Additional information about the stages of fire restrictions,  Forest Orders, and general forest conditions can be found at fs.usda.gov/kaibab and fs.usda.gov/coconino.

Beginning 8 a.m. Thursday, May 5, Stage 1 fire and smoking restrictions will be in effect on the entirety of the Coconino National Forest in addition to the Williams and Tusayan Districts (aka “South Zone”) of the Kaibab National Forest.

The City of Flagstaff will enter Stage 1 fire restrictions at that time as well.

Under Forest Service Stage 1 restrictions, fires, campfires, charcoal, coal and wood stoves are prohibited, except within a developed recreation site. Smoking is also prohibited, except within an enclosed vehicle, building or a developed recreation site. Fireworks are always prohibited on all national forest and state lands.

Using a device that is solely fueled by pressurized liquid petroleum or LPG fuels that can be turned on and off is allowed in areas that are barren or cleared of all overhead and surrounding flammable materials within three feet of the device.

Fire restrictions are implemented to help prevent human-caused fires and to limit the exposure of visitors during periods of potentially dangerous fire conditions. Decisions about fire restrictions are based on a combination of carefully measured factors. Criteria used to determine when to implement restrictions include current and predicted weather, fuel moisture, fire activity levels, enduring drought and available firefighting resources.

Additional restrictions could be forthcoming if conditions warrant. Fire restrictions typically remain in effect until the area receives significant, widespread precipitation.

Violations could result in mandatory appearance in a federal court, fines or jail time.

The public is reminded to always be extra cautious when recreating on public lands, regardless of restrictions.

For information on all Arizona state and federal fire restrictions, including an interactive map, visit wildlandfire.az.gov/fire-restrictions. Additional information about the stages of fire restrictions, Forest Orders, and general forest conditions can be found at fs.usda.gov/kaibab and fs.usda.gov/coconino.

The Prescott National Forest is planning to enter Stage 1 Fire Restrictions effective May 5, 2022, at 8:00 a.m. due to increasing fire activity and dry conditions. The increased fire danger is due to insufficient moisture and dry fuel conditions across the forest.

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. These restrictions reduce the risk of unwanted human-caused wildfires during periods of high fire danger and elevated fire weather conditions.  Fireworks and other pyrotechnic devices are ALWAYS prohibited on National Forests. 

Stage 1 fire restrictions prohibit the following:

1. Igniting, building, maintaining, or using a fire, including charcoal and briquettes outside a fire structure that is provided by the Forest Service within a designated 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, except while engaged in a lawful hunt pursuant to state, federal, or tribal laws and regulations. 36 C.F.R. § 261.58(m).

Exemptions to the restrictions include the following:

1. Pursuant to 36 C.F.R. §261.50(e), the following persons are exempt from the provisions in this Order:
2. Holders of Forest Service Special Use Authorizations are exempt from Prohibition #1 above, provided such fires are within a fire structure and they are within their permitted area.
3. Persons engaged in legal hunting activity are allowed to discharge a firearm while taking wildlife
4. Persons using a stove or grill that is solely fueled by liquid petroleum or liquid petroleum gas (LPG) fuels.
5. Persons using a stove fire in a designated area.
6. Any Federal, State, or local officer, or member of an organized rescue or firefighting force in the performance of official duty.

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

To view Forest Order 03-09-00-22-03: Prescott National Forest Emergency Stage 1 Fire Restrictions, please go to Alerts & Notices.

For fire information please call (928) 925-1111; or stay up to date on Prescott National Forest news by checking the Prescott NF website and following us on Facebook and Twitter.      

The Arizona Department of Environmental Quality has issued an Ozone High Pollution Advisory for Friday, April 29 and Saturday, April 30.

Restrictions

• Wood burning in residential fireplaces, chimeneas, outdoor fire pits, and similar outdoor fires is prohibited in Maricopa County. This includes individuals and businesses which have burn permits for open burning.
• Employees and contractors of government entities are prohibited from operating leaf blowers. Residents are encouraged to avoid leaf blowing during HPAs.
• Off-road vehicle use should be avoided.

Take Action

• Drive as little as possible: carpool, use public transit, or telecommute. For information on transportation alternatives, visit Valley Metro: www.ShareTheRide.com 
• Fuel your vehicle after dark or during cooler evening hours.
• Reduce your time waiting in long drive-thru lines. For example, at coffee shops, fast-food restaurants, or banks. Park your vehicle and go inside.
• Use low-VOCs (Volatile Organic Compounds) or water-based paints, stains, finishes and paint strippers.
• Delay big painting projects until HPAs have passed.
• Make sure containers of household cleaners, garage and yard chemicals and other solvents are sealed properly to prevent vapors from evaporating into the air.
• Eliminate wood burning in fireplaces, stoves, chimeneas, and outdoor fire pits.
• Avoid using leaf blowers. Use a rake or broom to keep debris out of the road and away from storm drains, ditches, and streams.
• Conserve electricity.

Transportation Coordinators

Due to unhealthy levels of ozone, Maricopa County Air Quality Department requests all Transportation Coordinators to email employees and activate your HPA plans. The department encourages the use of alternative modes of transportation, especially when pollution levels are expected to be on the rise.

Remind employees that they are encouraged to make more clean air. By taking small, simple steps every day, we can all make a difference. Additional tips on how to reduce air pollution can be found at www.CleanAirMakeMore.com.

Ozone

Ground level ozone is formed by a chemical reaction that needs heat from sunlight, nitrogen oxides and VOCs to form. The months of April through September make up our Valley’s longer-than-normal "ozone season."

"High Pollution Advisory" or "HPA" means the highest concentration of pollution may exceed the federal health standard. Active children, adults and people with lung disease such as asthma should reduce prolonged or heavy outdoor exertion. Maricopa County employers enlisted in the Travel Reduction Program are asked to activate their HPA plans on high pollution advisory days.

Since the fire started the challenge of strong winds has hampered firefighting efforts. Fire remains active in the Slate Creek drainage and the lower Crooks Creek drainage. Firefighters were able to control the spot that was an issue just west of Mount Tritle and continue to monitor the area for any activity. Fire in the southwest portion will have fuels transitioning to smaller and lighter brush which can assist with slowing the spread of the fire.

The northwest section of the fire contains a heavy timber fuel model with significant dead and down component contributing to increased fire behavior. Helicopters and fixed wing aircraft will continue operations throughout the day to slow advancement. The fire line boundary to the north is holding as crews continue with mop up operations.  Despite these challenges, firefighters remain optimistic and are doing their best to get the upper hand on this fire. Overall, even though the fire has been challenging things are looking good.

WEATHER: On Friday and Saturday, high pressure will bring a continuation of very dry conditions, but lighter west to southwest winds.

SMOKE INFORMATION:  Residents should be aware of increasing smoke conditions do to winds out of the south. Residents can monitor current conditions for the Crooks Fire, via Arizona Smoke Forecasting system located at https://azdeq.gov/wildfireforecast?fire=crooksfire

EVACUATIONS: Several areas remain in both the  “READY” and ”SET” status. Residents should continue to monitor the Yavapai County Sheriff’s Department Facebook page for additional information. https://www.facebook.com/YavapaiCountySheriff/

FOREST CLOSURE: To provide public health and safety due to firefighting operations and fire danger associated with the uncontrolled Crooks Fire, the Prescott National Forest has expanded the fire area emergency closure to the south. To view the Crooks Fire area closure order and map visit: Prescott National Forest - Alerts & Notices (usda.gov)

FIRE DETAILS: 
Location: 11 nautical miles south of Prescott-Bradshaw Ranger District (T12N, R2W, SEC 1), near Mt Union.
Start Date: April 18, 2022
Size: Approximately 9196 acres, 27% Containment
Cause: Under Investigation
Vegetation: Timber (Litter and Understory), Chaparral (6 feet)
Number of Personnel Assigned: 855

FIRE INFORMATION RESOURCES:
https://inciweb.nwcg.gov/incident/8067/                   
https://www.facebook.com/PrescottNF   
https://twitter.com/PrescottNF       
Email: [email protected]     
Fire Information: 928-925-1111    Hours: 8 a.m. - 7 p.m.
 

The Coconino County Sheriff’s Office is pleased to announce the neighborhoods along Highway 89 north of Campbell Avenue will be downgraded from “SET” to “READY” status. This includes the neighborhoods of Timberline, Fernwood, Lenox Park, Girls Ranch Road, Wupatki Estates, Antelope Hills, and the residences east/northeast of Moon Crater in Alpine Ranchos.

It is important to note that the Coconino National Forest in that area, including the Cinder Lakes OHV Area, will remained closed, due to a temporary closure order from the US Forest Service. For exact location of this temporary closure order and its established boundaries please contact the US Forest Service and/or visit the official Coconino National Forest website; https://www.fs.usda.gov/alerts/coconino/alerts-notices/?aid=72340.

In addition to the Forest Service temporary closure order, Forest Service 545 will be closed until further notice from Highway 89 to milepost 12 through Sunset Crater Volcano National Monument. The downgrade from “SET” to “READY” is mainly applicable for the private properties and neighborhoods within the Highway 89 corridor north of Campbell Avenue to the north entrance of Forest Service Road 545 (Wupatki National Monument).

The decision to downgrade the evacuation status was made in conjunction with the current Type I Incident Management Team, managing the Tunnel Fire. Due to the continued progress that firefighters have made and the weather outlook, the Incident Management Team has determined this area is no longer at risk from the limited remaining fire activity associated with the Tunnel Fire and recommended we downgrade the impacted areas to the “READY” status.

The Coconino County Sheriff’s Office would like to take this opportunity to thank all the agencies involved in this incident from the initial attack response, evacuation and re-entry efforts association with Tunnel Fire. Those agencies include; the Coconino National Forest, Sunset Crater Volcano National Monument, Summit Fire and Medical District, Arizona Game and Fish Department, Flagstaff Police Department, Navajo County Sheriff’s Office, Gila County Sheriff’s Office, Mohave County Sheriff’s Office, Arizona Department of Public Safety, Arizona Department of Transportation, Coconino County Public Works Department, Coconino County Community Development, and Coconino County Health and Human Services. There are many more agencies that were involved in this incident and our thanks go out to all of those that stepped in to help our communities.

Containment on the Tunnel Fire increased to 43% on Wednesday evening due to firefighters' continued hard work to mop up and secure the fire’s perimeter in the Sunset Crater National Monument and Black Mountain areas. Critical fire weather caused increased fire behavior with pockets of smoke within the fire's interior, but was not a threat to the perimeter. Suppression repair work occurred along Forest Road 545 and in Sunset Crater National Park.

Crews will remain on the Tunnel Fire for several days to patrol and check on reports of smoke and mop-up as needed. Their work will also include finishing backhaul of equipment that is no longer in use and completing suppression repair. As work is accomplished, resources will be released and made available to respond to other priority fires in the southwest.

As of this morning, the Tunnel Fire is 19,075 acres. The reduction in size is due to more accurately depicting the fire’s edge south of Darton Dome near the lava flows.

Tomorrow morning at 7 a.m. the management of the Tunnel Fire will transition to the Coconino National Forest and a Type 4 team. They will provide periodic updates as conditions change on the ground, and Inciweb will be updated until the fire is contained. U.S. Highway 89 has reopened.

Weather: There is a Red Flag Warning in effect for Thursday for low humidity levels and increased winds. Firefighters will continue to patrol and mop-up. They expect any active burning to be within the existing fire perimeter. Much of the visible smoke is a result of several large fires burning in the Region.
 
Closures: The Coconino National Forest has instituted a Forest Closure Order for the area affected by the Tunnel Fire. 

Fire details:
Start date: April 17, 2022
Cause: Under investigation
Incident Commander:
Randy Johnson
Pacific Northwest Team 3
Size: 19,075 acres
Containment: 43%
Total personnel: 338
Location: 14 miles northeast of Flagstaff, Ariz.
Resources: 9 Crews,16 Engines, 2 Dozers,1 Air Attack Plane, 1 Helicopter

Additional fire information:
Inciweb: https://inciweb.nwcg.gov/incident/8068/
Facebook: www.facebook.com/CoconinoNF
Twitter: www.twitter.com/CoconinoNF

On Wednesday strong winds out of the south with low relative humidity, hampered firefighting efforts. Wind gusts of 30 plus mph, drove the fire west of Lookout Mountain toward Dosoris Canyon, pushing smoke into Prescott and surrounding communities. Crews were successful in holding the 52 Spur Road to keep the fire west of the affected communities. Both rotary and fixed wing aircraft were utilized in direct and indirect attacks between Lookout Mountain and Johnson Flat supporting ground operations. Containment rose from 20%  to 23%, and the fire to the north and east remained in their established footprints, and crews remained patrolling those locations and prep for future operations.

Today, dozers and hand crews will work to strengthen the containment lines along Forest Service Road (FSR) 82. Favorable terrain may allow firefighters to access the fires edge west of Lookout Mountain, with the efforts of multiple fixed and rotary wing aircraft. Structure protection remains a key tactical objective and crews continue to perform defensive operations throughout the area. 

Resources Assigned:  5 - Type 1 Hotshot crews, 5 - Type 2 Hand crews, 41- Engines, 14 - Helicopters, Miscellaneous Equipment, and Overhead.

WEATHER: Gusty southwest winds with humidity in the teens to single digits, will once again produce near critical fire weather.

SMOKE INFORMATION:  Residents should be aware of increasing smoke conditions do to winds out of the south. Residents can monitor current conditions for the Crooks Fire, via Arizona Smoke Forecasting system located at https://azdeq.gov/wildfireforecast?fire=crooksfire

EVACUATIONS: Several areas remain in both the  “READY” and ”SET” status. Residents should continue to monitor the Yavapai County Sheriff’s Department Facebook page for additional information. https://www.facebook.com/YavapaiCountySheriff/

FOREST CLOSURE: To provide public health and safety due to firefighting operations and fire danger

associated with the uncontrolled Crooks Fire the Prescott National Forest has expanded the fire area emergency closure to the south. To view the Crooks Fire area closure order and map visit: Prescott National Forest - Alerts & Notices (usda.gov)

COMMUNITY MEETING: Thursday, April 28, 2022, at 6:00 p.m. Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University

3700 Willow Creek Road, Prescott, AZ. Residents may attend in person at the Hanger or virtually via Facebook Live Stream www.facebook/PrescottNF additionally, residents can watch live or view a replay on YouTube www.youtube.com/channel/UCzbIoBB-yAclQO_Hz0hBMQQ

Fire Details

• Location: 11 nautical miles south of Prescott-Bradshaw Ranger District (T12N, R2W, SEC 1), near Mt Union.
• Start Date: April 18, 2022
• Size: Approximately 9014 acres, 23% Containment
• Cause: Under Investigation
• Vegetation: Timber (Litter and Understory), Chaparral (6 feet)
• Number of Personnel Assigned: 855

Firefighters continued to make progress on the Tunnel Fire Tuesday. As a result, containment of the fire increased to 30 percent. The near-critical fire weather conditions were less severe than anticipated, with only breezy southwest winds and cooler temperatures due to cloud cover that remained over the fire area for much of the day.

Crews working along Forest Roads 420 and 545, and in the Timberline and Wupaki Trails communities patrolled the fireline, backhauled equipment no longer in use, and mopped-up where needed to remove any heat sources near the fireline. Firefighters patrolling in the Black Mountain and Strawberry Crater Wilderness Areas continued to mop-up the fire’s edge to ensure any heat within the fire’s perimeter is not a threat to the control features in place. No helicopter bucket drops were flown on Tuesday; however, a reconnaissance flight confirmed the decrease in acreage south of Darton Dome reported yesterday.

Weather: Early morning cloud cover will clear the area around 9 a.m. leading to near-critical fire weather conditions. As the clouds dissipate, sustained southwests will be 20 to 25 miles per hour and gusting to 35 miles per hour. Temperatures will be in the low-70s, and relative humidity values will remain low at about ten percent. Thursday is expected to be a critical fire weather day with a Red Flag Warning possible. The low-pressure trough will move out of the area Thursday night, resulting in lighter winds on Friday.

Today’s Activities: Firefighters remain vigilant for increased winds that are anticipated as the cloud cover clears the area in the morning. Much of the fire will be in patrol status as crews continue to engage around the entire fire perimeter ensuring that there are no heat sources that could threaten the containment. On the northeast portion of the fire, east of Strawberry Crater, firefighters will continue to mop-up in those areas still showing signs of heat. Equipment no longer needed on the fireline will be taken off the line to be refurbished so that it is ready for use on other incidents. Crews will also begin to repair disturbances that resulted from suppression efforts during the Tunnel Fire.

Evacuations: Information about evacuations is updated online at the Coconino County Tunnel Fire page. The County has also established a Coconino County Tunnel Fire Call Center at 928-679-8525.
 
Closures: The Coconino National Forest has instituted a Forest Closure Order for the area affected by the Tunnel Fire. 

Fire Details:
Start date: April 17, 2022
Cause: Under investigation
Incident Commander: Randy Johnson, Pacific Northwest Team 3
Size: 19,344 acres
Containment: 30 percent
Total personnel: 363
Location: 14 miles northeast of Flagstaff, Ariz.
Resources: 9 Crews, 16 Engines, 3 Dozers, 1 Air Attack Plane, 2 Helicopters

Information Resources: 
Inciweb: https://inciweb.nwcg.gov/incident/8068/
Email: [email protected]
Facebook: U.S. Forest Service - Coconino National Forest
Twitter: twitter.com/CoconinoNF

On Tuesday, a combination of southerly winds and difficult terrain hampered firefighting efforts. Wind gusts up to 25 mph created wind driven runs moving fire across FSR 81. Upper-level winds also continued to push smoke into surrounding communities. Despite  increasing acreage crews were able to increase containment from 16%  to 20%  and complete line construction from Moscow Peak west to Senator  Highway. In addition, teams performed prep work on the north and east perimeter of the fire.

Tactical objectives for today are to improve upon containment efforts made to the north and east. In addition, ground crews with support of dozers and aircraft, will perform direct and indirect actions south of Lookout Mountain and along FSR 81. Remaining firefighters will continue structure protection and be available for deployment to any area of need. An additional Helitack base has been established which will provide for faster turnaround times and increased support of ground crews on the south end of the fire.

Resources Assigned:  7 - Type 1 Hotshot crews, 5 - Type 2 Hand crews, 41- Engines, 13 - Helicopters, Miscellaneous Equipment, and Overhead.

WEATHER: Dry conditions continues throughout the area, with humidity in the teens to single digits. Winds out of the southwest at 15 to 20 mph with gusts up to 30 will produce near critical fire weather.

SMOKE INFORMATION:  Residents should be aware of increasing smoke conditions do to winds out of the south. Residents can monitor current conditions for the Crooks Fire, via Arizona Smoke Forecasting system located at https://azdeq.gov/wildfireforecast?fire=crooksfire

EVACUATIONS: Yavapai County Sheriff’s Department announced several areas have moved from “READY” to ”SET” status. Residents should visit the Yavapai County Sheriff’s Department Facebook page for additional information. https://www.facebook.com/YavapaiCountySheriff/

FOREST CLOSURE: To provide public health and safety due to firefighting operations and fire danger associated with the uncontrolled Crooks Fire the Prescott National Forest has implemented a fire area emergency closure. To view the Crooks Fire area closure order and map visit: Prescott National Forest - Alerts & Notices (usda.gov)

COMMUNITY MEETING: Thursday, April 28, 2022, at 6:00 p.m. Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University 3700 Willow Creek Road, Prescott, AZ. Residents may attend in person at the Hanger or virtually via Facebook Live Stream www.facebook/PrescottNF additionally, residents can watch live or view a replay on YouTube www.youtube.com/channel/UCzbIoBB-yAclQO_Hz0hBMQQ

FIRE DETAILS
Location: 11 nautical miles south of Prescott-Bradshaw Ranger District (T12N, R2W, SEC 1), near Mt Union.
Start Date:  April 18, 2022
Size:  Approximately 8018 acres, 20% Containment
Cause:    Under Investigation
Vegetation:   Timber (Litter and Understory), Chaparral (6 feet)
Number of Personnel Assigned: 786

FIRE INFORMATION:

https://inciweb.nwcg.gov/incident/8067/                     
Fire Information: 928-925-1111    Hours: 8 a.m. - 7 p.m.
Email: [email protected]
https://www.facebook.com/PrescottNF                          
https://twitter.com/PrescottNF  

Containment of the Tunnel Fire increased to 20 percent on Monday evening as firefighters continued to secure the fire’s perimeter and remove any heat near the control lines. Fire crews remain engaged around the entire fire perimeter. On the south and southwest portions of the fire, crews patrolled the areas that have been determined to be contained and began returning equipment no longer needed on the fireline so that it can be refurbished and available for future use. On the northern and northeast portions of the fire, helicopters dropped water on hot spots within the fire perimeter to assist ground-based firefighters working to increase containment.

Weather: Winds are expected to be out of the southwest with speeds of 15 to 20 miles per hour, gusting to 35 miles per hour. Temperatures will reach the mid 70s, with relative humidity values in the low teens. The weather forecast will remain consistent for the next several days, with a slight increase in wind speeds on Wednesday and Thursday. Critical fire weather conditions are expected to continue through Thursday night when the current weather pattern moves out of the area.

Today’s Activities: Firefighters are prepared for an increase in wind speeds and will focus their efforts in the Black Mountain and Strawberry Crater Wilderness areas on Tuesday, as they continue remove any remaining heat near the control lines. The crews in these areas will continue to be supported by helicopter bucket drops as weather conditions allow. Along Forest Roads 420 and 545, and in the Timberline and Wupaki Trails communities, firefighters will continue to patrol the fireline, mop-up where needed, and begin to backhaul equipment no longer needed on the fireline. Fire crews will continue working through the night, patrolling the fire and responding where needed.

As of this morning, the Tunnel Fire is 19,344 acres. The reduction in size is due to more accurately depicting the fire’s edge south of Darton Dome following the lava flows. 

Evacuations: Information about evacuations is updated online at the Coconino County Tunnel Fire page. The County has also established a Coconino County Tunnel Fire Call Center at 928-679-8525.

Closures: The Coconino National Forest has instituted a Forest Closure Order for the area affected by the Tunnel Fire. 

Fire Details

• Start date: April 17, 2022
• Cause: Under investigation
• Incident Commander: Randy Johnson, Pacific Northwest Team 3
• Size: 19,344 acres
• Containment: 20 percent
• Total personnel: 420
• Location: 14 miles northeast of Flagstaff, Ariz.
• Resources:
  • 10 Crews
  • 21 Engines
  • 5 Dozers
  • 1 Air Attack Plane
  • 2 Helicopters

ADDITIONAL FIRE INFORMATION:

• Inciweb: https://inciweb.nwcg.gov/incident/8068/ 
• Email: [email protected]
• Facebook: U.S. Forest Service - Coconino National Forest
• Twitter: twitter.com/CoconinoNF

Yesterday during the afternoon, terrain driven winds pushed the fire further south and west, resulting in increased fire growth and acreage. Upper-level winds caused the smoke influence in the Prescott area. Due to increased fire activity containment fell from 22 %  to 16 %. Crews continued direct line construction south of Lookout Mountain towards Ash Creek and from Moscow Peak west to Senator highway. Firefighters strengthened and improved the northern and eastern flanks of the fire,

Today, crews will attempt to construct direct and indirect control lines to protect Lookout Mountain structures. Multiple aircraft will be overhead assisting ground crews aggressively attacking any fires encroaching the FSR 81. Additionally, crews are building contingency lines to the west of the fire in case conditions cause a change in direction. Operational objectives include:

• Keeping the fire south of Prescott Basin
• Holding the fire west of Big Bug Mesa Road and FSR 83
• Keeping the fire north of FSR 82
• Containing fire east of FSR 97B

WEATHER: Dry conditions over the fire show afternoon humidity dropping into the single digits, otherwise sunny skies. Continued poor humidity recovery will increase fire behavior, with winds out of the south gusting up to 30 mph.

SMOKE INFORMATION:  Residents should be aware of increasing smoke conditions do to winds out of the south. Residents can monitor conditions via Arizona Smoke Forecasting system located at https://azdeq.gov/wildfireforecast?fire=crooksfire

EVACUATIONS: Yavapai County Sheriff’s Department announced evacuations were lifted for some portions of  North Walker Road. Residents should visit the Yavapai County Sheriff’s Department Facebook page to determine if they are eligible to return home. https://www.facebook.com/YavapaiCountySheriff/

FOREST CLOSURE: To provide public health and safety due to firefighting operations and fire danger
associated with the uncontrolled Crooks Fire the Prescott National Forest has implemented a fire area emergency closure. To view the Crooks Fire area closure order and map visit: Prescott National Forest - Alerts & Notices (usda.gov)

Fire Details:
Location: 11 nautical miles south of Prescott-Bradshaw Ranger District (T12N, R2W, SEC 12), near Mt Union.
Start Date: April 18, 2022
Size: Approximately 6454 acres, 16% Containment
Cause: Under Investigation
Vegetation: Timber (Litter and Understory), Grass-Shrub
Number of Personnel Assigned: 746
Resources Assigned:  6 - Type 1 Hotshot crews, 5 - Type 2 Hand crews, 40- Engines, 8 - Helicopters, Miscellaneous Equipment, and Overhead.

Information Resources:
Public Information Line: 928-925-1111; Hours: 8 a.m. - 7 p.m.
https://inciweb.nwcg.gov/incident/8067/                         
https://www.facebook.com/PrescottNF                          
Email: [email protected]            
https://twitter.com/PrescottNF       

Fire crews’ diligence and hard work have resulted in an increase in containment to 15% on the Tunnel Fire. Yesterday residents were able to re-enter the previously evacuated neighborhoods. US Highway 89 was re-opened yesterday afternoon. Firefighters continue to mop up, patrol and secure existing fireline while constructing new fireline to the northeast portion of the fire.

Weather: Conditions are expected to be drier and warmer today. Winds are expected to shift to the southwest and increase in speed Tuesday through Thursday, with possible gusts to 40 miles on hour on Thursday. The fire weather conditions are expected to reach record breaking levels for this time of year.

“We’ll be taking advantage of today’s weather to continue securing fireline ahead of the expected winds later this week,” said Incident Commander Randy Johnson. 

Today’s Activities: Favorable winds today will allow for aviation to assist hand crews as they corral the northeast edge of the fire in the Strawberry Crater Wilderness Area. A 4,000 gallon portable water site, known as a “heliwell” has been set up along Forest Road 545 near Painted Desert Vista.  The newly established heliwell will greatly reduce the turnaround time for helicopters to be able to support mop-up, cold trailing and line construction on the northeast portion of the fire near Black Mountain and in the Strawberry Crater. Crews are mopping up along fireline to Forest Road 9134E north of Black Mountain. Engine crews are patrolling and mopping up in and around the Timberline and Wupatki Trails, Forest Road 420 (Schultz Pass Road) as well as the southern edge of the fire along Forest Road 545 (Sunset Crater/Wupatki Loop Road).

Evacuations: Information about evacuations is updated online at the Coconino County Tunnel Fire page. The County has also established a Coconino County Tunnel Fire Call Center at 928-679-8525.

Closures: The Coconino National Forest has instituted a Forest Closure Order for the area affected by the Tunnel Fire. 

Fire Details:
Start date: April 17, 2022
Cause: Under investigation
Incident Commander:
Randy Johnson
Pacific Northwest Team 3
Size: 21,216 acres
Containment: 15 percent
Total personnel: 430
Location: 14 miles northeast of Flagstaff, Ariz.
Resources: 8 Crews, 23 Engines, 5 Dozers, 1 Air Attack Plane, 2 Helicopters

Information Resources:
Inciweb: https://inciweb.nwcg.gov/incident/8068/ 
Email: [email protected]
Facebook: U.S. Forest Service - Coconino National Forest
Twitter: twitter.com/CoconinoNF

Last night, fire remained active in Ash Creek. Northerly winds pushed the fire south resulting in significant growth in this drainage. Fire managers will continue to seek opportunities to engage with ground and air forces.

In other areas of the fire, weather provided good conditions to complete firing operations south of FSR 81 and west of FSR 82 to prevent fire spread to the northwest into Lookout Mountain and Dosoris Canyon. Crews continued to mop up and secure the north and northeast flanks of the fire. Throughout the day and into the night, firefighters extended the line south of Lookout Mountain towards Ash Creek and from Moscow Peak west to Senator Highway.

Today’s priority will be in Ash Creek. Fire crews will be working diligently in the southwest part of the fire to control growth that occurred last night. Further efforts will be to build direct line from Yankee Doodle Peak working west towards Senator Highway. Fire managers are planning contingency lines to the south and west of the fire in the event that weather conditions may push the fire in those directions.

WEATHER: Dry conditions will persist over the fire, with afternoon humidity of 5-10%. Today's wind will be slight, mostly terrain driven and will vary throughout the day in both direction and speed.

SMOKE INFORMATION:  Arizona Smoke Forecasting system information can be located at https://azdeq.gov/wildfireforecast?fire=crooksfire

EVACUATIONS:  Yavapai County Sheriff’s Department has announced evacuations will be lifted at 3:00 p.m. today in North Walker.  For more information visit Yavapai County Sheriff’s Department Facebook page at: https://www.facebook.com/YavapaiCountySheriff/

FOREST CLOSURE: To provide public health and safety due to firefighting operations and fire danger
associated with the uncontrolled Crooks Fire the Prescott National Forest has implemented a fire area emergency closure.  To view the Crooks Fire area closure order and map visit: Prescott National Forest - Alerts & Notices (usda.gov)     

Fire Details:
Location: 10 miles south of Prescott-Bradshaw Ranger District (T12N, R2W, SEC 12), near Mt Union.
Start Date: April 18, 2022
Size: Approximately 3,914 acres, 22% Containment
Cause: Under Investigation
Vegetation: Brush, Ponderosa Pine, and Mixed Conifer
Number of Personnel Assigned: 675
Resources Assigned:  6 - Type 1 Hotshot crews, 5 - Type 2 Hand crews, 38 - Engines, 11 - Helicopters, Miscellaneous Equipment, and Overhead. 

Information Resources:
Public Information Line: 928-925-1111; Hours: 8 a.m. - 7 p.m.
https://inciweb.nwcg.gov/incident/8067/                         
https://www.facebook.com/PrescottNF                          
Email: [email protected]            
https://twitter.com/PrescottNF