Emergency Information
Surprise Fire in Granite Basin Recreation Area now 80 percent contained
The 210 acre Surprise Fire in the Granite Basin Recreation Area is now 80 percent contained; with no additional growth. Firefighters will continue to patrol and closely monitor the fire.
All recreation sites in Granite Basin Recreation are open to the public including Yavapai Campground, Trail #349, Balancing Rock Trail and Trail #350, Surprise Spring Trail. Forest visitors entering the fire area should proceed with caution and be aware of any post-fire hazards such as burning stump holes.
The public can obtain additional information via the following:
- Prescott NF Fire Information: (928) 925-1111
- Prescott NF Forest Website: http://www.fs.usda.gov/prescott/
- Twitter: https://twitter.com/prescottnf
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/PrescottNF/
- Bradshaw Ranger District: (929) 443-8000
Crews continue to construct direct fire line for Johnson Fire
Summary: Crews arrived on the scene of the fire Tuesday morning and worked to secure the perimeter on the north side of the fire. Crews will return to the fire today, continuing to construct direct fire line and mop up heat along the fire perimeter. Recent precipitation assisted firefighters by extinguishing heat in lighter fuels, but significant heat remains in heavier fuels, mainly on the north side of the fire where crews will concentrate suppression efforts. High overnight humidity continues to keep fire behavior at a minimum. Crews are monitoring current and forecasted weather conditions, including the chance of additional precipitation over the fire late this afternoon and evening.
The Southwest Incident Management Team 3 assumed command of the fire Sept 24th at 0600 as management of the incident transitioned to a Type 2 Team. The objectives of the team include public and firefighter safety and protecting communities near the fire area. Challenges facing the team include difficult access and terrain, working in an area with heavy fuel loads, and active mining operations.
Resources: 5-Engines, 2-Dozers, 1-Type 2 Crew, 5-Type 1 Crews, 2-Type 3 Helicopters, air attack aircraft and miscellaneous overhead personnel. Air resources will be ordered as necessary.
Closures: South end Ponderosa Park to Lower Wolf Creek; Lower Wolf Creek to Senator Highway; Senator Highway (Forest Road 52) from Sky Y Camp at End of the Pavement to Palace Station.
Evacuations: Yavapai County Sheriff’s Department has lifted the evacuation for the residents located in the Look Out Mountain/Maverick Mountain Area. For assistance or questions please call (928) 771-3260.
In the interest of safety, the public is asked to not travel in the vicinity of Ponderosa Park, Lower Wolf Creek, and the community of Potato Patch as firefighters and fire-related traffic will be traveling in the area. Avoiding these areas will allow firefighters to work and travel safely during suppression operations.
For further information please visit or call the following:
- Fire Information: (928) 925-1111
- Twitter: @PrescottNF
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/PrescottNF/
- Inciweb: https://inciweb.nwcg.gov/incident/6608/
Location: 8 miles south of Prescott, AZ on the Bradshaw Ranger District (T12N, R2W, S16)
Start Date: September 22, 2019
Size: Approximately 210 acres
Percent Contained: 0
Cause: Under Investigation
Vegetation: Brush, Pinyon and Timber
Incident Commander: Dave Gesser, Type 2 SW Incident Management Team #3
Johnson Fire Update: Fire activity and growth stalled yesterday
Fire activity and growth stalled yesterday as predicted thundershowers materialized over the fire area. However, the rainfall was insufficient in reducing the fire’s potential as only 1⁄4” of precipitation fell over the fire. Fire crews continued scouting for placement of containment lines and safe access routes. Rugged terrain and inclement weather challenged fire crews on the ground.
The Southwest Incident Management Team 3 assumed command of the fire this morning at 0600 as management of the incident transitioned to a Type 2 Team. The objectives of the team include public and firefighter safety and protecting communities near the fire area. Challenges facing the team include working in an area with heavy fuel loads and active mining operations.
Resources: 9 - Engines, 2 – Dozers, 1 – Type 2 Crew, 2 – Type 3 Helicopters, air attack aircraft and miscellaneous overhead personnel. Resources arriving today: 5 – Type 1 Hotshots Crews, 2 – Helicopters, and air tankers as needed.
Closures: South end Ponderosa Park to Lower Wolf Creek; Lower Wolf Creek to Senator Highway; Senator Highway (Forest Road 52) from Sky Y Camp at End of the Pavement to Palace Station.
Evacuations: Yavapai County Sheriff’s Department has lifted the evacuation for the residents located in the Look Out Mountain/Maverick Mountain Area. For assistance or questions please call (928) 771-3260.
In the interest of safety, the public is asked to not travel in the vicinity of Ponderosa Park, Lower Wolf Creek, and the community of Potato Patch as firefighters and fire-related traffic will be traveling in the area.
Johnson Fire overview
Location: 8 miles south of Prescott, AZ on the Bradshaw Ranger District (T12N, R2W, S16)
Start Date: September 22nd
Size: Approximately 187 acres
Percent Contained: 0
Cause: Under Investigation
Vegetation: Brush, Pinyon and Timber
For further information please visit or call the following:
• Fire Information: (928) 925-1111
• Twitter: @PrescottNF
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/PrescottNF/
• Inciweb: https://inciweb.nwcg.gov/incident/6608/
Heavy rains lead to temporary closures;avoid areas near washes and low water crossings
Johnson Fire update; active fire on the north end overnight
Last night the fire was active on the north end as it burned in heavy dead and down timber. Due to the terrain and remote location firefighters will focus today on road access into the fire area and will continue structure assessment and locate potential hazards like mine shafts in the fire area.
Due to the location, values at risk, terrain and fuel loading, Gesser’s Type 2 Incident Management Team will take command of the Johnson Fire tomorrow.
Resources: 9 - Engines, 2 – Dozers, 1 – Type 2 Crew, 2 – Type 3 Helicopters, air attack aircraft and miscellaneous overhead personnel. Resources arriving today: 5 – Type 1 Hotshots Crews, 2 – Helicopters, and air tankers as needed.
Closures: South end Ponderosa Park to Lower Wolf Creek; Lower Wolf Creek to Senator Highway; Senator Highway (Forest Road 52) from Sky Y Camp at End of the Pavement to Palace Station.
Evacuations: Yavapai County Sheriff’s Department has issued a Code Red Alert – GO for residents located in the Look Out Mountain/Maverick Mountain Area. For assistance or questions please call (928) 771-3260. Evacuation shelter is at Prescott High School.
In the interest of safety, the public is asked to not travel in the vicinity of Ponderosa Park, Lower Wolf Creek, and the community of Potato Patch as firefighters and fire-related traffic will be traveling in the area.
Johnson Fire overview
Location: 8 miles south of Prescott, AZ on the Bradshaw Ranger District (T12N, R2W, S16)
Start Date: September 22nd
Size: Approximately 200 acres
Percent Contained: 0
Cause: Under Investigation
Vegetation: Brush, Pinyon and Timber
Firefighters responded to a smoke report at 2:15 pm on September 22, approximately 8 miles south of Prescott, near Lookout Mountain (T12N, R2W, S16).
The public can obtain additional information via the following:
- Fire Information: (928) 925-1111
- Prescott NF Forest Website: http://www.fs.usda.gov/prescott/
- Twitter: @PrescottNF
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/PrescottNF/
- Local Ranger Station: Bradshaw Ranger District (928) 443-8000
Firefighers respond to smoke report south of Lookout Mountain
Firefighters responded to a smoke report at 2:15 pm approximately 8 miles south of Prescott, near Lookout Mountain (T12N, R2W, S16). The 100 acre Johnson Fire is burning in brush, pinyon and some timber. Firefighters and air attack are on scene assessing fuels conditions and values at risk. Smoke will be visible from Prescott and other local communities.
Current resources: Four engines, two helicopters, air attack aircraft and miscellaneous overhead personnel. Several resources have been ordered including two heavy air tankers, one very large air tanker, two helicopters and additional crews.
Current Road Closures: South end Ponderosa Park to Lower Wolf Creek; Lower Wolf Creek to Senator Highway; Senator Highway (Forest Road 52) from Sky Y Camp at End of the Pavement to Palace Station.
Evacuations: Yavapai County Sheriff’s Department has issued a Code Red Alert – GO for residents located in the Look Out Mountain/Maverick Mountain Area. For assistance or questions please call (928) 771-3260. Evacuation shelter is at Prescott High School.
In the interest of safety, the public is asked to not travel in the vicinity of Ponderosa Park, Lower Wolf Creek, and the community of Potato Patch as firefighters and fire-related traffic will be traveling in the area.
The public can obtain additional information via the following:
- Fire Information: (928) 925-1111
- Prescott NF Forest Website: http://www.fs.usda.gov/prescott/
- Twitter: @PrescottNF
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/PrescottNF/
- Local Ranger Station: Bradshaw Ranger District (928) 443-8000
Health Watch issued for ozone effective September 21 and 22, 2019, in the Phoenix area
The Arizona Department of Environmental Quality (ADEQ) is issuing a Health Watch (HW) for ozone effective September 21 & 22, 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 >
Windy conditions cause the Ikes Fire on the Kaibab Plateau to grow
Due to consecutive days of strong, gusty winds and below normal moisture over recent weeks, fire activity has increased again on the southwestern edge of the Ikes Fire, which is located on the North Rim of Grand Canyon National Park and the North Kaibab Ranger District of the Kaibab National Forest.
After nearly two weeks of minimal growth and smoke production, the lightning-caused Ikes Fire is once again visible to visitors in the area. Due to a day of wind gusts in the 40 to 45 mph range, the wildfire has now grown to approximately 9,800 acres. Almost all of the recent growth has occurred in Grand Canyon National Park below the canyon’s rim, where available fuels were in alignment with the strong winds and steep slopes.
Weather forecasts predict that winds will diminish considerably tomorrow, which should lead to a noticeable decrease in fire behavior. Moisture is also expected to make its way back into the area by the beginning of next week.
Fire managers will continue to evaluate safe and effective options and strategies to limit or stop fire spread. This could include using the area burned in the 2018 Stina Fire to stop the wildfire’s movement to the northeast on the Kaibab National Forest.
To ensure public and firefighter safety, the temporary closure area of the Ikes Fire on the North Kaibab Ranger District will be expanded to include the roads, trails and viewpoints in the Rainbow Rim Trail area. Areas in the expanded closure include:
- Parissawampitts Point
- Fence Point
- Locust Point
- North Timp Point
- Timp Point
- Stina Point
Highway 67 and the North Rim Village and businesses are open. However, road and trail closures are in effect for the Ikes Fire area within Grand Canyon National Park. 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 wildfires in the area, will be visible and may cause impacts. Visitors traveling to the area should be aware of possible smoke along 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 at https://azdeq.gov/SmokeManagemet.
More information can be found at InciWeb at https://inciweb.nwcg.gov/incident/6475/. Visit www.nps.gov/grca/learn/management/firemanagement.htm for additional information about wildland fire at Grand Canyon National Park.
For information about the Kaibab National Forest, visit www.fs.usda.gov/kaibab or @KaibabNF on Facebook and Twitter.
Flu shots available at Coconino County Health and Human Services
The seasonal influenza vaccine is available at the Coconino County Health and Human Services (CCHHS) Clinic in Flagstaff.
Flu shots are available beginning Monday, Sept. 23 at the CCHHS Clinic, 2625 N. King Street, Flagstaff. Appointments are available Monday – Friday from 8 a.m. - 5 p.m. Walk-ins are accepted as availability permits. Call the CCHHS Clinic at 928-679-7222 to make an appointment.
The cost for a flu vaccination at the CCHHS Clinic is $30. High-dose flu vaccinations are $50. As a courtesy, the CCHHS will bill people’s insurance company, but those seeking a flu shot should check with their insurance provider to determine whether they are covered and are also asked to bring their insurance card. No one will be denied services due to an inability to pay.
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommends a yearly flu vaccination as the first step in protecting against flu viruses. It is strongly recommended that everyone 6-months old and over get a flu shot each year.
Every year a new vaccine is manufactured to combat circulating influenza viruses during each flu season. While it is too early to determine the effectiveness of this season’s vaccine, immunization reduces the chance of influenza-related complications, such as hospitalization, chronic disease and/or death. The immune system will be better prepared to combat the flu the earlier people get their shot.
The following groups of people are encouraged to get a flu vaccination because they are at high - risk of having serious flu-related complications or because they live with or care for people at high risk for developing flu-related complications, including:
- Pregnant women
- Children younger than 5, but especially children younger than 2 years old
- Children with special healthcare needs
- People 50 years of age and older
- People of any age with certain chronic medical conditions
- People who live in nursing homes and other long-term care facilities
- People who live with or care for those at high risk for complications from flu.
- Health care workers
- Household contacts of persons at high risk for complications from the flu
- Household contacts and out of home caregivers of children less than 6 months of age (these children are too young to be vaccinated)
Flu symptoms include fever, chills, muscle aches, cough, congestion, runny nose, headaches and fatigue. Complications of flu can include bacterial pneumonia, ear infections, sinus infections, dehydration and worsening of chronic medical conditions, such as congestive heart failure, asthma, or diabetes. In the most severe cases, flu can lead to death.
In addition to getting a seasonal flu shot, good health habits are also recommended. These simple actions can stop the spread of germs and help protect you and others from getting sick:
- Wash hands frequently during the flu season.
- Avoid touching eyes, nose or mouth.
- Avoid contact with people who are sick.
- Cover your mouth with your upper sleeve or with a tissue when coughing or sneezing.
- Don’t share eating utensils, cups and straws.
- Stay home when you are sick.
Additional information is available at www.coconino.az.gov/hhs. Contact your health care provider or call the Coconino County Health and Human Services Clinic at 928-679-7222 or toll-free at 1-877-679-7272.
Whiskey Fire using helicopter for burnout ops today
Fire managers on the Whiskey Fire have will be using a helicopter to perform aerial ignitions to supplement the efforts of firefighters conducting hand ignition burnouts today which will produce large volumes of smoke going northeast.
Utilizing a helicopter to conduct aerial burnout operations in remote and steep sections of the fire area reduces risk to firefighters working on the ground. Ignitions are important to secure control lines and keep the fire within the predetermined containment area. Today’s firing operation is expected to produce a significant amount of smoke for the next several days. The Whiskey Fire is currently 4,190 acres.
Persons planning to travel near the fire area should expect delays and alternate routes as identified. Fire patrols are present to guide forest visitors to alternative routes in the event of a temporary road closure. Smoke will be present, so turn your headlights on for safety.
Smoke is expected to spread to the northeast today and tomorrow moving more to the north. Smoke may affect areas including Flagstaff, Munds Park, Mountainaire, Kachina Village, Forest Highlands, Doney Park, Mormon Lake Village, Highway 89A Corridor, Sedona, Village of Oak Creek and portions of Interstate 40. Firefighters will attempt to reduce impacts to the public as much as possible. However, there are no perfect weather conditions or tactics that exist to remove smoke impacts entirely from a fire.
For more information, including smoke forecasts for the Whiskey Fire, updates concerning closures and notable fire activity please visit the Whiskey Fire InciWeb site https://inciweb.nwcg.gov/incident/6580/ Quick updates will also be provided on the Coconino National Forest’s Twitter and Facebook sites, and the Forest’s website at www.coconinonationalforest.us
WHISKEY FIRE OVERVIEW
- Whiskey Fire Inciweb site: https://inciweb.nwcg.gov/incident/6580/
- Discovery date: Sept. 2, 2019.
- Cause: Lightning.
- Containment: 16 percent.
- Origin location: Approximately 15 miles southwest of Flagstaff (Latitude/Longitude: 35° 2.652N, 111° 50.394W).
- Current size: 4,190 acres.
- Current resources: Four engines, one fuels crew, one dozer, four fire prevention unit, and various firefighting personnel. Approximately 80 people.
- Predicted smoke impacts: Large amounts of smoke will be produced over the next few days, impacting Flagstaff, Lake Mary and Kachina Village. Communities at lower elevations, such as Oak Creek Canyon, Sedona and Village of Oak Creek may also experience smoke impacts in the evening and overnight as smoke drains into those areas. Firefighter, public safety, and ecosystem health remain the top priorities for fire managers while keeping the fire within the planning area. Smoke may appear thicker at times due to burnout operations or as the wildfire consumes larger trees. This is normal.
- Current closures: Expected closures around the fire area is anticipated and parts of forest roads in the area may be closed periodically to allow for safe firefighting operations.
- Recent and current operations: Wildland firefighting crews are conducting burnout operations to ensure it remains in the planning area.
Redmond and River Fires near full containment
The Redmond and River Fires, both started by lightning, on the evening of Tuesday, September 3 are nearing containment and minimal fire activity is visible.
The Redmond Fire, burning north of Globe, reached 920 acres before firefighters received help from rain falling on the fire area. Firefighters will continue to patrol the area, and monitor fire activity as the weather returns to warmer and drier conditions. Forest Roads 223 and 644 remain temporarily closed to the public.
The River Fire, burning north of Cave Creek, reached 7,900 acres, and fire crews were able to keep it from growing larger by burning out from Forest Roads 17 and 41 (Table Mesa Road). Higher humidity aided firefighters, even though the area didn’t receive any measurable rain. Forest Road 41 is open to the public. Firefighters will continue to patrol firelines, so please slow down when driving in the area, and be alert for potential flash flooding if thunderstorms appear on the horizon.
Officials to lift Castle Fire closure on the North Kaibab Ranger District
Effective today, the Kaibab National Forest will lift the area closure around the Castle Fire that has been in place since the lightning caused wildfire started in mid-July.
Members of the public can now access the area, which had been closed due to public safety during ongoing fire operations, including areas of active fire, and the presence of firefighting equipment and personnel. The public Is advised to have heightened awareness about potential safety hazards and exercise increased vigilance regarding personal safety.
"The district was very successful at restoring fire into a fire dependent ecosystem, which will greatly reduce the risk of future catastrophic wildfire and improve overall forest health," said North Kaibab District Ranger Randall Walker. "We now believe it is appropriate to lift the closure and allow the public to resume activities in the area such as hunting and fuelwood gathering, but that doesn't mean hazards don't exist. We urge the public to understand the potential hazards and to prepare accordingly. We want them to be able to use their public lands but we want them to do it safely, recognizing that any area recently impacted by wildfire will likely have some greater risk than other areas."
Potential risks in any area recently burned by wildfire include the following:
- Burned out stump holes that could cause injury if stepped in;
- Unstable terrain with potential for rolling debris (boulders, logs, rocks, etc.);
- Unsound burned trees (snags) that could fall or drop large limbs;
- Storms resulting in flash flooding that could wash out roads, initiate debris flows, and entrap people at flooded stream courses;
- Eroded and very rough roads that could result in unsafe driving conditions
- Blowing dust and ash on roads and hillsides.
Visitors to the Castle Fire area are advised to follow these outdoor safety best practices:
- Know the weather forecast and check it frequently as conditions can change in a very short timeframe.
- Let someone outside the area know exactly where you are and where you will be going daily.
- Do not park vehicles or camp in areas with burned snags or where potential flood waters would prevent escape. Know where you are in relation to drainages.
- During windy conditions remain in open areas that are free of trees (both live and burned) as much as possible.
- If an area seems unsafe for any reason, leave.
- Have good maps and know where you are at all times.
- Keep a well charged cell phone with you and check it frequently so you know when you are in an area where there is no coverage.
- Understand that there are many areas on public lands that are remote. It can take a very long time before responders can arrive if a rescue is required. The Castle Fire area is very remote.
Visitors can check with the North Kaibab Ranger District office to get the latest Information regarding current conditions:
North Kaibab Ranger District: 928-643-7395, www.fs.usda.gov/kaibab
Jacob Lake Visitor Center: 928-643-7298
For additional information please visit:
- Castle Fire Inciweb Page: https://inciweb.nwcg.gov/incident/6439/
- Kaibab National Forest Website: www.fs.usda.gov/kaibab
- Twitter: www.twitter.com/KaibabNF
- Facebook: www.facebook.com/KaibabNF
- Flickr: http://bit.ly/CastleFire2019
Bats found in Grand Canyon National Park test positive for rabies
Grand Canyon National Park would like to remind visitors about the following things they can do to protect themselves from rabies:
- Never approach or touch wildlife. Please observe and appreciate wildlife from a safe distance. If you see sick or erratic behaving wildlife, notify a park employee or call the park's 24-hour emergency communications center at 928-638-7805.
- In areas where pets are allowed, make sure that pets are vaccinated and kept on a leash at all times. Domestic animal contact with bats should be minimized.
- Teach children to tell you if they are bitten or scratched by an animal.
- Anyone who has had contact with a bat or other wild animal in the park should notify a park employee as soon as possible. You should consult with your doctor in the event you have contacted an animal thought to be rabid.
- While on a river trip take extra precaution and sleep in a tent for protection. Public health officials should be contacted if a bat is found in a room where a person has been sleeping.
- Bats should never be handled by untrained or unvaccinated people nor be kept as pets.
Rabid bats have been documented in 49 states. Every year, there are reported cases of rabies in animals in Coconino County, Arizona. The Arizona Department of Health Services website has additional information about rabies testing, prevention and publications within the state at: https://www.azdhs.gov/preparedness/epidemiology-disease-control/rabies/index.php.
Bats found in Grand Canyon National Park test positive for rabies
Grand Canyon National Park would like to remind visitors about the following things they can do to protect themselves from rabies:
- Never approach or touch wildlife. Please observe and appreciate wildlife from a safe distance. If you see sick or erratic behaving wildlife, notify a park employee or call the park's 24-hour emergency communications center at 928-638-7805.
- In areas where pets are allowed, make sure that pets are vaccinated and kept on a leash at all times. Domestic animal contact with bats should be minimized.
- Teach children to tell you if they are bitten or scratched by an animal.
- Anyone who has had contact with a bat or other wild animal in the park should notify a park employee as soon as possible. You should consult with your doctor in the event you have contacted an animal thought to be rabid.
- While on a river trip take extra precaution and sleep in a tent for protection. Public health officials should be contacted if a bat is found in a room where a person has been sleeping.
- Bats should never be handled by untrained or unvaccinated people nor be kept as pets.
Rabid bats have been documented in 49 states. Every year, there are reported cases of rabies in animals in Coconino County, Arizona. The Arizona Department of Health Services website has additional information about rabies testing, prevention and publications within the state at: https://www.azdhs.gov/preparedness/epidemiology-disease-control/rabies/index.php.
Forest Service announces cause of Museum Fire
The Forest Service is announcing the preliminary results of the investigation regarding the cause of the Museum Fire, a wildfire which began July 21 and burned 1,961 acres on the Coconino National Forest above Flagstaff.
Fire investigators have determined that the human-caused wildfire originated in a steep slope environment associated with critical restoration work and was likely caused by an excavator striking a rock during operations. The resulting spark created a heat source that hibernated until warm, dry, and windy conditions arrived that caused the heat source to grow into a small fire and was subsequently spread by the wind. Rock strikes are possible during operations in steep slope thinning restoration projects such as the Flagstaff Watershed Protection Project.
At this time, the investigation has shown that the cause of the fire was not related to negligence and that all proper inspections of equipment were conducted. The investigation also determined that the last piece of equipment was used 14 hours prior to the first report of fire, and the operator had completed a one-hour fire watch before leaving the area.
“It’s unfortunate that the Museum Fire started as the result of ongoing restoration work designed to reduce the risk of uncharacteristic wildfire and improve forest health and resiliency—especially in the Flagstaff area where citizens joined together to invest resources to help fund the Flagstaff Watershed Protection Project,” said Coconino National Forest Supervisor Laura Jo West. “Fortunately, some of the restoration work that had been completed previously in and around the wildfire area actually helped stop the fire from becoming larger and more destructive.”
Post-fire analysis show that 50 percent of the wildfire burned at low severity, 38 percent burned at moderate severity, and 12 percent of the area burned at high severity. During the past several years, city and Coconino National Forest personnel have worked diligently to implement planned Flagstaff Watershed Protection Project actions and have made substantial progress.
“While the cause of the fire is unfortunate, it does not take away from the significant mitigating impact the treatment work had on the fire and subsequently the forest and our watershed,” said Flagstaff Mayor Coral Evans. “The restoration work initiated by the Flagstaff Watershed Protection Project, in partnership with the Forest Service, is incredibly valuable and we remain committed to continuing this work and further protecting our watershed.”
Deep layers of forest fuels and roots can hold heat for long periods of time, burning and smoldering underground for days, weeks, or months without any sign of a fire. They can surface at a later time when temperatures become warmer and the weather becomes windier, causing a wildfire. As with all investigations, the Forest Service will continue to investigate and provide updates if new information is uncovered.
Free Emergency Preparedness & Wellness Expo on Sep. 21 at Metrocenter Mall
Maricopa County Department of Public Health’s Building Bridges to Health Network, in partnership with Metrocenter Mall and first responders, will celebrate National Preparedness Month with its 11th annual multicultural emergency preparedness expo on Saturday, Sept. 21th. This year’s theme, Prepared Not Scared – Preparados No Asustados reminds the community about the importance of personal preparedness.
“From floods to power outages, emergencies can happen anywhere at any time,” said Dr. Rebecca Sunenshine, medical director for Disease Control at Maricopa County Department of Public Health. “Events like these remind us about all of the things we can do both individually and as a community to be prepared for large and small emergencies. Everything from checking on your neighbors on hot days to getting vaccinated can play a role in emergency preparedness and response.”
More than 40 agencies will be featured at this year’s Expo, offering activities and services related to:
- First aid
- Evacuation planning
- Caring for pets in a disaster
- How to deal with stress and mental health during emergencies
- Dealing with chronic conditions during emergencies such as heart and stroke
- What documents to have handy in case of an emergency
For the second year in a row, we will offer health screenings such as , mammograms, diabetes testing and dental screenings for children and adults
Also, we have a Women and Family special event in partnership with the Consulate of Mexico in Phoenix. New this year, we will be featuring Celebrity Chef Doreen Colondres who will be doing cooking demos. Expo visitors will also have the opportunity to receive free first aid kits, bikes, bike helmets, car seats and the uninsured adults can get FREE flu immunizations.
All event activities will be free of charge.
WHEN
Saturday, September 21, 2018, 9am – 3pm (Indoor events and activities 1st level of mall, north of Harkins theaters)
WHERE
Metrocenter Mall, 1st level north of Harkins Theaters
9617 N. Metro Parkway W., Phoenix, AZ 85051
More information
Please visit www.WeArePublicHealth.org www.SomosSaludPublica.org
Facebook.com/MCDPH Facebook.com/SaludPublicaMaricopa or Twitter.com/MaricopaHealth Twitter.com/SaludMaricopa
Whiskey Fire to produce large amounts of smoke
Beginning Wednesday, firefighters plan to conduct burnout operations on the fire management boundary of the Whiskey Fire along Forest Road 231 to protect areas and ensure the active wildfire stays in its containment area.
The fire is burning approximately 8 miles west of Turkey Butte Lookout within the footprint of the 2014 Slide Fire in approximately 140 acres.
Fire activity and smoke impacts will increase in the immediate area through Thursday, in downwind communities and in the Flagstaff area as dozens of firefighters burn fuel on the management boundary reinforcing the wildfire containment.
Forest Road 231 will be closed at the intersection of FR 536 (near Phone Booth Tank) all the way south to the intersection of FR 231A. The closure is expected to begin Wednesday (Sept. 11) and last two to three days in efforts to provide firefighter and public safety. However, the closure could last longer if necessary to safely continue vital operations. Persons planning to travel in this area should expect delays and use the alternate routes identified at closure points.
Fire personnel are planning to cease or reduce burnout operations over the weekend to reduce smoke impacts to the area. However, no perfect weather condition exist to remove smoke impacts entirely from a fire.
This lightning-started fire is being used to slowly consume forest debris, turning the forest floor fuels into nutrients and reduces the risk of a more severe high-intensity wildfire in the future. The Ponderosa pine forest thrives on low- to moderate-severity fire.
Smoke may affect areas including Flagstaff, Munds Park, Mountainaire, Kachina, Forest Highlands, Doney Park, Mormon Lake Village, Highway 89A Corridor, Sedona, Village of Oak Creek and portions of Interstate 40.
For more information, including smoke forecasts for the Whiskey Fire, updates concerning closures and notable fire activity please visit the Whiskey Fire InciWeb site https://inciweb.nwcg.gov/incident/6580/ Quick updates will also be provided on the Coconino National Forest’s Twitter and Facebook sites, and the Forest’s website at www.coconinonationalforest.us
WHISKEY FIRE OVERVIEW
- Discovery date: Sept. 2, 2019.
- Cause: Lightning.
- Containment: 0 percent.
- Origin location: Approximately 15 miles southwest of Flagstaff (Latitude/Longitude: 35° 2.652N, 111° 50.394W).
- Current size: 140 acres.
- Current resources: Four engines, one fuels crew, one dozer, one fire prevention unit, and various firefighting personnel. Approximately 37 people.
- Predicted smoke impacts: Large amounts of smoke produced over the next few days, impacting Flagstaff, Lake Mary and Kachina Village. Communities at lower elevations, such as Oak Creek Canyon, Sedona and Village of Oak Creek may also experience smoke impacts in the evening and overnight as smoke drains into those areas. Firefighter, public safety, and ecosystem health remain the top priorities for fire managers while keeping the fire within the planning area. Smoke may appear thicker at times due to burnout operations or as the wildfire consumes larger trees. This is normal.
- Current closures: Expected closures around the fire area is anticipated and parts of forest roads in the area may be closed periodically to allow for safe firefighting operations.
- Recent and current operations: Wildland firefighting crews are conducting burnout operations to ensure it remains in the planning area. Current operations are taking place along Forest Roads near FR 231.
Fire crews expected to begin additional firing operations on the Sheridan Fire
Sheridan Fire Overview
Location: 23 miles Northwest of Prescott, AZ on the Chino Valley District (T16N, R6W, S16)
Size: 21,510 acres;
Percent Contained: 60%
Cause: Lightning
Vegetation: Piñon-Juniper, Grass, and Brush
Resources: Approx. 60 personnel including: 3-Engines, 1-Crew and 1-Helicopter
Closure: Forest officials reduced the Sheridan Fire area closure. County Road 68 (Camp Wood Road) is now open. All areas north of County Road 68 (Camp Wood Road) are open with the exception of a small area adjacent to Forest Service Roads 95 and 9821B (see map). The area south of County Road 68 (Camp Wood Road) remain closed. The current closure area map and detailed description are available on Inciweb and on the Prescott National Forest website.
Due to decreased fire activity we will only issue updates and News Releases when significant changes occur.
The public can obtain additional fire information via the following:
Prescott NF Forest Website: http://www.fs.usda.gov/prescott/
Twitter: @PrescottNF
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/PrescottNF/
Fire Information: (928) 925-1111
Inciweb: https://inciweb.nwcg.gov/incident/6522/
Local Ranger Stations: Bradshaw Ranger District (928) 443-8000
Whiskey Fire to produce smoke southwest of Flagstaff this week
Wildland firefighters are managing the Whiskey Fire, a lightning-started fire reported on Sept. 2, burning on approximately 105 acres in Ponderosa pine about 15 miles southwest of Flagstaff within the footprint of the 2014 Slide Fire.
Fire managers are strategic when making decisions about how to manage a wildfire for restoration purposes.
When a wildfire begins in the forest, fire managers assess how best to use the fire as nature intended and whether or not to suppress it immediately. In the case of the Whiskey Fire, managers are using it as nature intended and allowing it to burn dense forest fuels across the landscape to help mitigate the possibility of severe wildfires in the future.
Fire managers will continue to assess the fire to determine the best course of action. Today’s operations will be similar to the last few days, where fire personnel continue to reinforce containment lines and monitor the fire for a change in fire behavior. Recent rains continue to aid fire personnel by creating excellent conditions for allowing the fire to burn slowly, consuming the forest debris at low intensities.
As temperatures drop in the evening, smoke impacts are possible to the communities of the Village of Oak Creek, Sedona, and surrounding areas. Smoke may also settle along the state Route 89A corridor. The greatest impacts will be during the early morning hours from midnight to 3 a.m. and should improve by mid-morning.
Forest users are advised to use caution when entering the proposed fire area. Firefighting vehicles and firefighters are present on roadways and smoke may reduce visibility. Parts of Forest Road 231 may be closed periodically to allow for firefighting equipment and operations. Please reduce speed and remain alert.
The Whiskey Fire will be active for weeks to come. Due to safety concerns for the public and firefighters, campers should not set up long-term campsites near the fire area.
WHISKEY FIRE OVERVIEW
Whiskey Fire Inciweb site: https://inciweb.nwcg.gov/incident/6580/
Discovery date: Sept. 2, 2019.
Cause: Lightning.
Containment: 0 percent.
Origin location: Approximately 15 miles southwest of Flagstaff (Latitude/Longitude: 35° 2.652N, 111° 50.394W).
Current size: 105 acres.
Current resources: One engine and fire prevention unit. Approximately 15 personnel. Resources will increase tomorrow as fire activity and burnout operations increase.
Predicted smoke impacts: Expect increased smoke production over the next few days, impacting Flagstaff, Lake Mary and Kachina Village. Communities at lower elevations, such as Oak Creek Canyon, Sedona and Village of Oak Creek may also experience smoke impacts in the evening and overnight as smoke drains into those areas. Firefighter, public safety, and ecosystem health remain the top priorities for fire managers while keeping the fire within the planning area. Smoke may appear thicker at times due to burnout operations or as the wildfire consumes larger trees. This is normal.
Current closures: None currently, but a closure around the fire area is anticipated soon, and parts of Forest Road 231 may be closed periodically to allow for safe firefighting operations.
Recent and current operations: Wildland firefighting crews are conducting burnout operations to ensure it remains in the planning area. Current operations are taking place along Forest Road 231.
Crews busy with two new fire starts on the North Kaibab Ranger District
Two new wildfires started yesterday on the North Kaibab Ranger District of the Kaibab National Forest. Multiple interagency resources, including aircraft, responded to the incidents and took immediate suppression actions to stop the fires' spread.
The Le Fevre Fire, located approximately 15 miles southeast of Fredonia off Highway 89A near the Le Fevre Overlook, was caused by a motor vehicle accident. Due to hot, dry and windy conditions the fire grew to approximately 20 acres in the pinyon, juniper and brush. Although the fire's spread has been stopped, fire managers only list the containment at 80 percent due to the potential for spot fires with another day of gusty southwest winds predicted. Today,crews will continue to hold, secure and mop up the fire.
Highway 89A remains open to motorists but may be restricted to one lane to allow fire crews to utilize equipment and personnel to secure the fire. Visitors traveling in the area should use caution and be aware that fire crews and equipment may be working near the road.
The Cougar Fire was also discovered yesterday near Cougar Lake just south of the recent Castle Fire area approximately 6 miles northwest of Demotte Campground. The fire was contained at approximately one acre and was caused by lightning from a recent thunderstorm. Today fire personnel will continue to hold, secure and mop up the fire.
In addition to the two new fires, fire personnel are still closely monitoring the progress of the Ikes wildfire. This fire has been managed jointly between the Kaibab National Forest and the National Park Service since its discovery on July 25 near Swamp Point on the North Rim of Grand Canyon National Park. It is currently 7,630 acres within its 7,785 acre planning area and is being utilized in order to fulfill its natural role of reducing dense forest fuels and improving overall ecosystem health. For more information regarding the Ikes Fire please visit: https://inciweb.nwcg.gov/incident/closures/6475/
Discovery Date: September 7, 2019.
Cause: Human (Motor vehicle accident).
Location (point of origin): Approximately 15 miles southeast of Fredonia, off Highway 89A near the Le Fevre Overlook on the North Kaibab Ranger District of the Kaibab National Forest.
Current Resources: 4 engines, 1 water tender, 1 dozer, and miscellaneous fire management personnel. Total personnel approximately 25.
Current Size: Approximately 20 acres. No additional perimeter growth is expected. Fire spread has been stopped, however fire managers list overall containment at 80 percent because of spotting potential due to the presence of hot, dry and windy weather conditions.
Predicted Smoke Impacts: Smoke is visible from Highway 89A in the immediate fire area. The highway is open to motorists however it may be restricted to one lane to allow fire fighters to work safely near the road
Recent and Current Operations: Crews will continue to hold, secure and mop up the fire.
COUGAR FIRE OVERVIEW
Discovery Date: September 7, 2019.
Cause: Lightning.
Location (point of origin): Approximately 6 miles northwest of Demotte Campground and 4 miles west of Highway 67 near Cougar Lake on the North Kaibab Ranger District of the Kaibab National Forest.
Current Resources: 2 engines and miscellaneous fire management personnel. Total personnel approximately 8.
Current Size: Approximately 1 acre. The fire is contained and no additional fire growth is expected
Kaibab National Forest information is available through the following sources:
- Ikes Fire Inciweb Page: https://inciweb.nwcg.gov/incident/closures/6475/
- Kaibab National Forest Website: www.fs.usda.gov/kaibab
- Twitter: www.twitter.com/KaibabNF
- Facebook: www.facebook.com/KaibabNF
- Flickr: https://www.flickr.com/photos/kaibabnationalforest/albums
