Arizona Emergency Information Network

The Arizona Department of Environmental Quality (ADEQ) is issuing a High Pollution Advisory (HPA) for ozone effective May 15, 2020, in the Phoenix area. ADEQ recommends that people limit outdoor activity while the HPA is in effect, especially children and adults with respiratory problems.

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

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

Apple iTunes > | Google Play >

Health Impacts

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

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

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

Be Air Aware!

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

BACKGROUND

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

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

Particulate Matter Fact Sheet | View >

Ozone Fact Sheet | View >

Effective Friday, May 15 all ranger districts of the Coronado National Forest will increase campfire and smoking restrictions in southeastern Arizona.

Beginning May 15, and until rescinded, the following are prohibited:

• Building, maintaining, attending, or using a fire, campfire, charcoal, coal, or wood stove including fires in developed campgrounds or improved sites.
• Smoking, except within an enclosed vehicle or building.
• Discharging a firearm except while engaged in a lawful hunt pursuant to state, federal, or tribal laws and regulations.
• Operating any internal combustion engine, except operating motorized vehicles on designated roads so long as you park in an area devoid of vegetation within 10 feet of the roadway.
• Welding, or operating acetylene or other torches with an open flame.
• Using an explosive.
• Fireworks are always prohibited year-round on federal lands.

Violation of restrictions on federal lands is punishable as a Class B misdemeanor, which includes a fine of not more than $5,000 for an individual and up to $10,000 for organizations and possible imprisonment for not more than six (6) months or both. Violators may also be held personally responsible for reimbursement of fire suppression costs. Arizona and New Mexico state laws carry similar penalties.

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. 

Cigarettes should never be thrown out the window of a vehicle. Instead, ashtrays should be used in order to prevent wildfires. 

Never park a vehicle over dead grass; the catalytic converter can ignite the vegetation.

Fire conditions as well as localized closures and restrictions are subject to change.  Because 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, visit http://wildlandfire.az.gov or call the toll-free Southwest Fire Restrictions Hotline at 1-877-864-6985.

Governor Doug Ducey today announced that the Stay At Home order in Arizona will be ending on May 15 and replaced by new guidance for the next stage of economic recovery. The new guidance aligns with gating criteria issued by the White House and Centers For Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and aims to mitigate the risk of COVID-19 resurgence, protect vulnerable populations, and guide the reopening of businesses with enhanced physical distancing and safety measures in place.

Arizona’s new Executive Order, which takes effect on Saturday, May 16, builds on Arizona’s comprehensive efforts to slow the spread of COVID-19 and protect public health, including: ramping up testing availability and frequency; implementing tracking of key health metrics such as reported symptomatic cases and emergency room usage; standing up surge hospital capacity to be used as needed; expanding statewide contact tracing; bolstering supply chains for personal protective equipment for frontline medical workers and emergency responders; implementing enhanced safety protocols to protect those living and working in high-risk facilities such as nursing homes; and providing public health guidance for businesses and individuals to ensure continued physical distancing. 

“Since the start of this pandemic, Arizona has taken a calm and steady approach to protecting health and slowing the spread of COVID-19,” said Governor Ducey. “Today, our hospitals have capacity to provide care to those who need it; our businesses are implementing and adapting to new physical distancing measures; and data shows Arizona is headed in the right direction. It is time to move forward with the next steps of Arizona’s economic recovery — while continuing to make health and safety our number one priority. I’m grateful to all Arizonans for their partnership and cooperation during these trying times. By continuing to follow the data and recommendations of public health officials, we can continue to move forward safely and responsibly together.” 

Governor Ducey also announced today an accelerated plan to test all staff and residents of long-term care facilities as well as individuals within Arizona’s prisons. As part of this plan, the Arizona Department of Health Services will partner with private-sector labs to expand testing to 147 long-term care facilities and provide antibody tests for correctional officers. Additionally, major league sports can resume limited reopening, without fans, this Saturday, May 16.

The Arizona Department of Health Services also released additional guidance for businesses and customers as more industries resume partial operations. This guidance includes:

Pools, with physical distancing and enhanced sanitation - can reopen Wednesday, May 13 (GUIDANCE)

Gyms & Fitness Providers, with physical distancing and enhanced sanitation - can reopen Wednesday, May 13 (GUIDANCE)

Spas, with physical distancing and enhanced sanitation - can reopen Wednesday, May 13 (GUIDANCE)

While never formally closed, many Places of Worship opted to temporarily change or suspend services in order to follow physical distancing guidelines. As they resume operations, the Arizona Department of Health Services released GUIDANCE for enhanced physical distancing and safety precautions.

View today’s Executive Order HERE. 

View daily Arizona updates HERE.

The Tonto National Forest will begin Stage 2 Fire Restrictions May 12 at 8 a.m. in conjunction with other federal and state land management agencies in Arizona.

According to Tonto National Forest Supervisor Neil Bosworth, rising temperatures and an increase in drying trends of grass fuel loads resulting from above average winter moisture prompted the decision to implement these fire restrictions.

“Arizona’s wet winter has created a carpet of grasses which are now cured and dry due to the recent high temperatures,” Bosworth said. “With the escalating fire danger, we already have seen an increase in human caused fires on the Tonto. Implementing these fire restrictions with other area land management agencies will help prevent human-caused wildfires, reducing risk to firefighters and the public.”

During Stage II Fire Restrictions, the following is prohibited:

• Igniting, building, maintaining, attending, or using a fire, campfire, or stove fire, including use of charcoal or briquettes is prohibited on the Tonto National Forest
  • The use of stoves or grills that are solely fueled by liquid petroleum gas (LPG) are allowed
• Operating internal combustion power tools, such as a chainsaw or other equipment, between 9 a.m. to 8 p.m.
  • Generators with an approved spark arresting device in an area that is barren or cleared of all overhead and surrounding flammable materials within 3 feet of the generator are allowed
• Welding, or operating any acetylene or other torch with an open flame
• Smoking, except within an enclosed vehicle or building, a developed recreation site, or while stopped in an area at least 3 feet in diameter that is barren or cleared of any flammable material.  Deposit butts and remains in an ashtray or inside a building; do not toss or discard on the ground

Taiga Rohrer, Tonto National Forest Fire Management Officer, emphasizes the need for the public to be very careful while visiting the forest.

“The cured grasses are especially susceptible to the slightest spark, so it’s important to avoid parking on or driving over dry grass,” Rohrer said. “Motorists also should check to ensure any trailer chains don’t drag, and check the condition of trailer tires and wheel bearing before travelling.”

He noted that violation of these fire restrictions is punishable by a fine of up to $5,000 and imprisonment for up to six months.

In addition to Stage II Fire Restrictions, target shooting restrictions also remain in effect on the Tonto through July 31. Under these restrictions, discharging a firearm air, rifle, or gas gun, except for persons engaged in legal hunting activities, is prohibited on the Tonto.

Fireworks and the use of exploding targets always are prohibited year-round on national forests.

For more information regarding forest recreation sites and fire restrictions on the Tonto National Forest, contact the Tonto National Forest at (602) 225-5200. The Stage II Fire Restrictions document and accompanying map can be found on the Tonto website.

For information on current fires burning in Arizona visit Inciweb, and visit the Arizona Fire Restrictions website to view all fire restrictions in Arizona.

Beginning May 12, 2020, the Arizona Department of Forestry and Fire Management, the Bureau of Land Management (BLM) and the Bureau of Reclamation (BOR) will implement Stage 2 fire restrictions. Fire restrictions are a tool many agencies use to restrict activities known to be the most common causes of wildfires. Continued dry conditions and an increase in wildfire activity throughout Arizona have led agencies to implement fire restrictions.

Preventing wildfires keeps communities and firefighters safe; reducing their risk and exposure to
injury, smoke, and disease. Once conditions improve, and the risk of wildfires has been reduced, fire restrictions will be rescinded, and all allowable activities will be permitted to continue.

A violation of posted restrictions could result in citations, fines, jail time or reimbursement of the
cost to put out the fire and rehabilitate the fire area.

The Stage 2 fire restrictions are as follows:
Bureau of Land Management and Bureau of Reclamation administered lands in Arizona. The following activities are prohibited on all BLM and BOR administered public lands in Arizona:
• Building, maintaining, attending or using a fire, campfire, charcoal, coal or wood stove. (Propane and pressurized liquid or gas stoves, grills or lanterns that include shut-off valves are permitted when used in an area of at least six feet or more cleared of flammable material such as grass and brush.)
• Smoking, except within an enclosed vehicle or building
• Welding or the use of any torch, metal cutting or grinding equipment
• Operating any internal combustion engine, such as a chainsaw or similar power tools
• Discharging a firearm except while engaged in a lawful hunt pursuant to state, federal or
tribal laws and regulations
• Using fireworks, exploding targets, and incendiary devices, which are prohibited yearround Arizona Department of Forestry and Fire Management – State Trust and Unincorporated Private Lands. The following activities are prohibited on all state-owned and managed lands, except south of the Grand Canyon in Coconino County:
• Building, maintaining, attending or using a fire, campfire, charcoal, coal or wood stove. (Propane and pressurized liquid or gas stoves, grills or lanterns that include shut-off valves are permitted when used in an area of at least six feet or more cleared of flammable material such as grass and brush.)
• Smoking, except within an enclosed vehicle or building.
• Operating any internal combustion engine, chainsaw usage restricted from 9am-8pm, welding or operating acetylene or other torch with open flame, using explosives.
• Discharging a firearm except while engaged in a lawful hunt pursuant to state, federal, or tribal laws and regulations.
• Recreational target shooting and fireworks are prohibited on state lands year-round. Do your part. Don’t let a wildfire start. The public plays a valuable role in preventing wildfires. On average, human-caused wildfires make up more than half of all wildfire occurrences in Arizona annually. Always keep outdoor fire safety in mind. Many of our wildfires start from vehicle and equipment use as well as campfires, or debris burning on private property.

Follow all fire restrictions. Use spark arresters on small equipment. Secure tow chains and check the condition of tires and brakes. Never pull your vehicle off the road into dry vegetation. Prepare your home for wildfire. As we find ourselves spending more time close to home, take the time to evaluate the risk around your home and prepare for wildfires. Taking individual responsibility to reduce flammable materials around homes and communities before a fire occurs can help keep property, the public, and firefighters safe. Rake up dead leaves or needles, pull weeds and mow lawns, trim up your trees, and move anything that will burn away from your home. Creating a buffer between your home and trees, shrubs, undeveloped spaces or other wildland areas, is essential to improving your home’s chance of surviving a wildfire. Not only can this space help slow or stop the spread of wildfire, it also provides a safe place for firefighters to defend your home if conditions allow.

Fire restrictions vary by agency and jurisdiction. “Know before you go.” Contact your local land or fire management agency or fire department for more information. Learn more about current fire restrictions and current fire situations at https://wildlandfire.az.gov.

Arizona Department of Forestry and Fire Management: https://dffm.az.gov/
• Bureau of Land Management – Arizona: https://www.blm.gov/arizona
• Bureau of Reclamation – Lower Colorado Basin: https://www.usbr.gov/lc/

Seasonal fire restrictions are now in place at Lake Mead National Recreation Area. The restrictions are necessary to prevent wildfire during this period of extended drought and increased potential for wildland fires in Arizona and Nevada.

The following acts are prohibited or modified, until further notice:

• Building, maintaining, attending or using a fire or campfire with any wood or charcoal burning device, such as a fire pit or grill, is prohibited within the backcountry, except along shorelines. Fires along backcountry shorelines must be at least 100 feet from the nearest beach logs, structure or vegetation and must be within wood or charcoal burning devices, such as a fire pit or grill.
• Smoking outside of an enclosed vehicle in any area that is not cleared of all flammable material for at least three feet. Discarding of cigarettes in anything other than a car ashtray or an ashtray in a developed area.

The following activities are allowed:

• Portable stoves with gas, jellied petroleum or pressurized liquid fuel are allowed within the backcountry.
• Fires are permitted in grills, fire rings, portable stoves, portable barbecues and portable fireplaces in all developed campgrounds and designated picnic areas.
• Gas powered grills are permitted on houseboats.
• Gas and charcoal grills are allowed within developed areas, including beaches, so long as they are at least 100 feet from vegetation.
• Gas and charcoal grills are allowed on private boats outside of the harbors of Lake Mead and Lake Mohave. Rental boats are authorized to use grills attached to the vessel if allowed under boat rental agreements. All vessel barbeque fires must be at least 100 feet away from shoreline vegetation.
• Please extinguish all fires if windy conditions are present.

Campfires are never allowed at Boulder Beach, Cottonwood Cove, Arizona Telephone Cove, Princess Cove, Cabinsite Cove, near marinas and launch ramps and in developed areas and shorelines where there is a posted “no campfire” sign.

Additionally, the use of fireworks, including "safe and sane,” is prohibited at all times on all public lands including Lake Mead National Recreation Area, Title 36, Code of Federal Regulations, Section 2.38 (b) under the National Park Service.

Coconino County Health and Human Services (CCHHS) is participating in the Arizona COVID-19 Testing Blitz on Saturday, May 9. This statewide initiative aims to test up to 60,000 Arizonans for COVID-19. Testing will be held at Coconino County Health and Human Services, 2625 N. King Street, Flagstaff, AZ 86004 from 10 a.m. – 3 p.m. Drive through testing and walk up testing will be available.

Anyone who wishes to be tested can utilize the testing blitz this Saturday. Individuals exhibiting COVID-19 symptoms (fever, cough, difficulty breathing, chills, repeated shaking with chills, muscle pain, headache, sore throat and new loss of taste or smell), individuals that feel they have been exposed to COVID-19 and essential workers are encouraged to be tested.

CCHHS is working with our many partners to conduct the testing. Testing will be limited to the amount of available supplies and is first come, first served. Coconino County strives to make the testing process as efficient as possible. Once paperwork is complete, testing is completed in less than a minute. COVID-19 testing is done by swabbing the nasal cavity to collect the samples needed for testing. Results are available within seven days.

“The COVID-19 Testing Blitz on May 2 was extremely successful with 287 specimens collected,” said Chair Archuleta. “This large turnout indicates that there is a desire for testing in our community. We are excited to continue to be able to participate in this initiative this upcoming weekend.”

Individuals that want to be tested for COVID-19 at the May 9 CCHHS Testing Blitz are asked to register at www.coconino.az.gov/covid19. Registration does not guarantee testing availability. Everyone at the testing site is required to wear a mask or face covering. Testing is intended for Coconino County residents.

More information is available at www.coconino.az.gov/covid19 and by calling the Coconino County COVID-19 Information Line at 928.679.7300. To see all testing locations in Arizona, visit www.azhealth.gov/TestingBlitz.
 

The Arizona Department of Environmental Quality (ADEQ) is issuing a High Pollution Advisory (HPA) for ozone effective May 7, 2020, in the Phoenix area. ADEQ recommends that people limit outdoor activity while the HPA is in effect, especially children and adults with respiratory problems.

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

Health Impacts

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

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

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

The U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Forest Service, Southwestern Region is enacting a recreational shooting restriction for the Coronado, Prescott and Tonto National Forests to reduce wildfires and to protect the health and safety of employees and communities.

Beginning May 6, 2020 at 5:00 pm and until July 31, 2020 or until rescinded, recreational shooting is prohibited in the Coronado, Prescott, and Tonto National Forests due to current conditions. These forests are experiencing an increase in drying trends of extreme grass fuel loads resulting from above average winter moisture. When you factor in the current pandemic, the assembly of wildland firefighters engaging in suppression efforts becomes a public health concern. Under this restriction, discharging of a firearm, air rifle, or gas gun, except while engaged in a lawful hunt, is prohibited on the listed national forests.

“The decision to implement a shooting restriction is driven by amplified risk of wildfire in areas increasingly vulnerable to drying conditions combined with the likely resource shortage due to COVID-19 mitigation within our fire organization,” said Acting Regional Forester Elaine Kohrman. “This restriction also attempts to reduce smoke emissions that compromise first responder and public respiratory health.”

The Coronado, Prescott, and Tonto National Forests have a history of shooting related fires. Current conditions, in addition to the global pandemic, indicate that shooting will lead to shooting-caused fires if these preventive measures are not taken. Within the last two weeks alone, these forests have experienced seven wildland fires likely caused by recreational shooting, resulting in hundreds of acres burned. As a reminder, in accordance with 36 CFR 261.5(b), tracer and incendiary rounds are prohibited on National Forest System Lands. Additionally, exploding targets and fireworks are prohibited on all National Forests and Grasslands located in the Southwestern Region per Order #03-00-00-19-001 dated June 30, 2019.

The following is prohibited under the May 6 shooting restriction order:

• discharging of a firearm, air rifle, or gas gun, except while engaged in a lawful hunt.

Violating the shooting restriction may result in an appearance in federal court, fines, or other penalties. Forest visitors will still be able to engage in lawful hunting activities. While these restrictions are in place, most of the Coronado, Prescott, and Tonto National Forests are still open for dispersed recreation activities to include hunting, camping and hiking.

Visit the Interactive Visitor Map at www.fs.usda.gov/goto/ivm for more information on available activities. For additional information on COVID-19, go to https://www.coronavirus.gov. Information from the U.S. Department of Agriculture is available at www.usda.gov/coronavirus. Information on public lands use in Arizona is available at https://tourism.az.gov/responsible-recreation-across-arizona/

The Arizona Department of Environmental Quality (ADEQ) is issuing a High Pollution Advisory (HPA) for ozone effective May 6, 2020, in the Phoenix area. ADEQ recommends that people limit outdoor activity while the HPA is in effect, especially children and adults with respiratory problems.

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

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

Apple iTunes > | Google Play >

Health Impacts

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

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

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

Be Air Aware!

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

BACKGROUND

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

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

Particulate Matter Fact Sheet | View >

Ozone Fact Sheet | View >

Coconino County will hold a public interactive Town Hall on Wednesday, May 6 from 6:30 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. using Zoom Video Communications (Zoom). The meeting will also be streamed on Coconino County’s YouTube channel and broadcast on NAU-TV.
“Coconino County has been leading the COVID-19 response as the public health agency for our region,” said Coconino County Supervisor Liz Archuleta, Chair of the Board of Supervisors.

“The County is hosting this town hall to provide brief reports on the status of the COVID-19 response and engage with questions and concerns that our residents have. We hope that you will join us via Zoom or livestreams on YouTube or NAU-TV to learn more and get your questions answered.”

The Town Hall will include COVID-19 updates from County leaders and a moderated question and answer session. Frequently asked questions and resource listings will be available before the town hall at www.coconino.az.gov/covid19

To join by Zoom, please click the link to join the webinar: https://zoom.us/j/96497206262 or call via telephone: 833.548.0276 (Toll Free). Enter the Webinar ID: 964 9720 6262 

View the livestream at YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/user/coconinocnty

Please go to www.coconino.az.gov/covid19 for more information.

The Arizona Department of Environmental Quality (ADEQ) is issuing a High Pollution Advisory (HPA) for ozone effective May 5, 2020, in the Phoenix area. ADEQ recommends that people limit outdoor activity while the HPA is in effect, especially children and adults with respiratory problems.

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

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

Apple iTunes > | Google Play >

Health Impacts

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

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

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

Be Air Aware!

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

BACKGROUND

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

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

Particulate Matter Fact Sheet | View >

Ozone Fact Sheet | View >

 
FIND THE FORECAST

ADEQ Hourly Air Quality Forecast | View >

Text or Email Alerts | Subscribe > 

Air Arizona Mobile App | Learn More >

Apple iTunes >

Google Play >

Governor Doug Ducey and the Arizona Department of Health Services today released additional guidelines as retail businesses resume partial operations starting next week. The recommendations include enhanced sanitation and physical distancing steps customers and business owners should take to facilitate increased business interactions while minimizing the risk of COVID-19.

“As we breathe life back into our businesses, we want to make sure we’re taking common sense precautions to keep employees and customers safe,” said Governor Ducey. “Taking these responsible steps that prioritize public health will help grow confidence and ensure we don’t just reopen all businesses, but do it successfully. I’m grateful to all the business owners and employees putting safety first and providing their feedback as we take continued steps to reenergize Arizona’s economy.”

Under an Executive Order signed Wednesday, starting Monday, May 4, retail businesses can sell goods through delivery service, window service, walk-up service, drive-through service, drive-up service, curbside delivery or appointment provided they establish and implement sanitation and physical distancing measures. On Friday, May 8, businesses can resume partial openings that incorporate social distancing and sanitation measures established by the United States Department of Labor or the Arizona Department of Health Services.

In addition, the Governor announced this week a goal to resume dine-in services at restaurants in May. Additional guidance will be developed in coordination with public health officials and will be provided in the days ahead.

Arizona retail guidelines can be found HERE and below.

• Arizona Retail Guidelines 5/1/2020

Coconino County has installed a Wi-Fi hotspot allowing residents of Page and the surrounding areas to access internet without charge. 

The hotspot is located between the Coconino County Health and Human Services Northern Region Office and Page Magistrate Court buildings at 467 Vista Avenue. A map is attached. Internet access is available throughout the entire parking lot and residents are encouraged to stay in their cars and practice social distancing. The network does not require a password and is named CountyWiFi. 

“Broadband and internet connectivity are crucial to connect residents to work and school,” said Coconino County Supervisor Lena Fowler. “Many parts of our county do not have quality access to a broadband connection. Providing available and free internet access will allow the residents of Page and tribal communities to connect with job-seeking resources and focus on schoolwork during this difficult time.” 

Northern Arizona University has also installed Wi-Fi hotspots for students to use throughout the Navajo Nation and Hopi Reservation. For more information on Northern Arizona University’s Wi-Fi hotspots please visit www.nau.edu/access. 

Map of wi fi service

The Coconino County Board of Supervisors enacted a campfire ban, for Coconino County, during the board meeting on Tuesday.

The ban aligns with the United States Forest Service Southern Region campfire ban which went into effect on April 22 and includes all national forests in Arizona. Building, maintaining, attending or using a fire, campfire or stove fire are prohibited throughout the County’s jurisdictional boundaries. The ban does not apply within the boundaries of the municipal governments in the County. Gas and propane powered stoves, grills or lanterns with an on/off switch are permitted.

The campfire ban will protect the health and safety of fire fighters during the COVID-19 pandemic and reduce the impact of poor air quality on those suffering from or at risk of COVID-19.

“Fire season is approaching and fighting fires is a hazardous profession that limits the ability of first responders to physically distance,” said Coconino County Chairwoman Liz Archuleta.

“Campfires can lead to unwanted human-caused fires which pose a threat to our communities. We encourage residents to recreate where appropriate without campfires.”

Proactive forest restoration measures and related activities which are currently underway on National Forest and private lands will not be impacted. The ban went into effect immediately upon adoption and will remain in effect until rescinded by the Board of Supervisors.

Coconino County Health and Human Services (CCHHS) is participating in the Arizona COVID-19 Testing Blitz on Saturday, May 2. This statewide initiative aims to test up to 60,000 Arizonans for COVID-19. 

The CCHHS testing sites locations are: 
• Fort Tuthill, 2446 Fort Tuthill Loop, Flagstaff, AZ 86005: 10 a.m. – 3 p.m. 
• CCHHS, 2625 N. King Street, Flagstaff, AZ 86004: 10 a.m. – 3 p.m. 

Individuals exhibiting COVID-19 symptoms (fever, cough, difficulty breathing, chills, repeated shaking with chills, muscle pain, headache, sore throat and new loss of taste or smell) and individuals that feel they have been exposed to COVID-19 can be tested. CCHHS is partnering with Translational Genomics Research Institute (TGen) to conduct the testing. Due to a limit of 300 testing kits available at each site, individuals may be turned away once testing capacity is reached. 

“The County Board of Supervisors strongly supports this initiative and considers widespread testing an absolute necessity for combating the COVID-19 pandemic,” said Chair Archuleta. “However, the shortage of testing supplies is an ongoing concern and may limit the amount of people we can test this weekend. We have communicated this concern to the Governor and our state partners and will continue to advocate for the supplies needed to meet the public demand for testing and to ensure the health and safety of our community.” 

Individuals that want to be tested for COVID-19 at the May 2 CCHHS Testing Blitz are asked to register at www.coconino.az.gov/covid19. Registration does not guarantee testing availability. 
Everyone at the testing site is required to wear a mask or face covering. Testing is intended for Coconino County residents. 

More information is available at www.coconino.az.gov/covid19 and by calling the Coconino County COVID-19 Information Line at 928.679.7300. 

To see all testing locations in Arizona, visit www.azhealth.gov/TestingBlitz. 

Some developed recreation sites and facilities on Coronado National Forest remain closed to prevent coronavirus exposure to employees who would maintain them. Due to a lack of personal protective equipment (PPE) such as face masks, gloves, and cleaning supplies, closures will remain in place until a sustainable supply can be obtained.

The Coronado National Forest has experienced an increase in the amount of trash left behind at trails and surrounding closed facilities. Overflowing trash can attract predators and be harmful to wildlife. Remember to practice Leave No Trace Principles and take trash to dispose of in a proper receptacle.

“The Coronado is one of the great areas to enjoy in Arizona," said Kerwin Dewberry, Forest Supervisor.  "We ask that the public help keep this special place clean and sanitary for the health and safety of all visitors and wildlife."

While developed recreation facilities are closed, most of the forest remains open for dispersed camping and activities that allow for physical distancing, such as bicycling, hiking and nature watching. Remember, fees are charged at some recreation areas.

Visit the Interactive Visitor Map at www.fs.usda.gov/goto/ivm for more information on available activities. For additional information on COVID-19, go to https://www.coronavirus.gov.

Coconino County Health and Human Services (CCHHS) officials confirmed that fleas collected in the Baderville area, northwest of Flagstaff, have tested positive for plague (Yersinia pestis). Collecting and testing of fleas for the presence of plague was conducted by the Pathogen and Microbiome Institute at Northern Arizona University. 

CCHHS has notified area residents and the burrows were treated. The area will be closely monitored to determine if further action is required. 

This is the first location within the County where fleas have tested positive for plague this year. Because the disease is endemic in Coconino County, there are likely additional locations with infected fleas. CCHHS Environmental Health staff will continue to collect and test flea samples from locations throughout the County. 

CCHHS is urging the public to take precautions to reduce their risk of exposure to this serious disease, which can be present in fleas, rodents, rabbits and predators that feed upon these animals. The disease can be transmitted to humans and other animals by the bite of an infected flea or by direct contact with an infected animal. To limit possible exposure, people are encouraged to avoid rodent burrows and keep dogs on a leash as required by Arizona State law. 

An abundance of active prairie dogs doesn’t indicate disease is present. However, a sudden die- off of in prairie dogs and rodents, may be an indicator of plague. Persons noticing a sudden die- off of rodents or rabbits are urged to contact CCHHS Environmental Services at 928-679-8750. 
Symptoms of plague in humans generally appear within two to six days following exposure and include the following: fever, chills, headache, weakness, muscle pain, and swollen lymph glands (called “buboes”) in the groin, armpits or limbs. The disease can become septicemic (spreading throughout the bloodstream) and/or pneumonic (affecting the lungs) but is curable with proper antibiotic therapy if diagnosed and treated early. 

Persons living, working, camping or visiting in areas where plague and/or rodents are known to be present are urged to take the following precautions to reduce their risk of exposure: 
1. Do not handle sick or dead animals.

2. Prevent pets from roaming loose. Pets can pick up the infected fleas of wild animals, 
and then pass fleas on to their human owners. This is one of the common ways for humans to contract plague. Cats with plague can also pass the disease on to humans directly thorough respiratory droplets.

3. De-flea pets routinely. Contact your veterinarian for specific recommendations.

4. Avoid rodent burrows and fleas.

5. Use insect repellents when visiting or working in areas where plague might be active 
or rodents might be present (campers, hikers, woodcutters and hunters).

6. Wear rubber gloves and other protection when cleaning and skinning wild animals.

7. Do not camp next to rodent burrows and avoid sleeping directly on the ground.

8. Be aware that cats are highly susceptible to this disease and while they can get sick 
from a variety of illnesses, a sick cat (especially one allowed to run at large outside) should receive care by a veterinarian for proper diagnosis and treatment to reduce human exposure to plague.

9. In case of illness see your physician immediately as treatment with antibiotics is very 
effective. 
More information is available at https://www.cdc.gov/plague/. 

The Arizona Department of Forestry and Fire Management, Bureau of Indian Affairs, Bureau of Land Management, National Park Service, U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, and the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Forest Service emphasize the importance of fire prevention and preparedness.

Know before you go. When planning your outdoor adventure always check for local closures and restrictions, which can change regularly. Variations in policies and mandates between tribal, federal, state, and local governments can cause some differences in the way restrictions are implemented. Visit wildlandfire.az.gov for current fire restrictions, as well as prevention and preparedness tips, and fire information.

Do your part. Don’t let a wildfire start. The public plays a valuable role in preventing wildfires. On average, human-caused wildfires make up more than half of all wildfire occurrences in Arizona annually. Always keep outdoor fire safety in mind. Many of our wildfires start from vehicle and equipment use as well as campfires, or debris burning on private property. Use spark arresters on small equipment. Never burn on windy days. Only have campfires where they are allowed. Put them out completely and only leave when the fire is cold to the touch. Target shooting is never allowed on Arizona State lands at any time of the year. In areas where target shooting is allowed, choose areas clear of dry vegetation. The use of exploding targets is not allowed on most federally managed public lands in Arizona. Secure tow chains and check the condition of tires and brakes. Never pull your vehicle off the road into dry vegetation.

Prepare your home for wildfire. As we find ourselves spending more time close to home, take the time to evaluate the risk around your home and prepare for wildfires. Taking individual responsibility to reduce flammable materials around homes and communities before a fire occurs can help keep property, the public, and firefighters safe. Rake up dead leaves or needles, pull weeds and mow lawns, trim up your trees, and move anything that will burn away from your home. Creating a buffer between your home and trees, shrubs, undeveloped spaces or other wildland areas, is essential to improving your home’s chance of surviving a wildfire. Not only can this space help slow or stop the spread of wildfire, it also provides a safe place for firefighters to defend your home if conditions allow.

It is up to all of us to make a difference. Contact your local fire department or land-management agency for more information or resources.

Governor Doug Ducey today announced that the Arizona Department of Health Services (ADHS), in partnership with healthcare partners across the state, are joining forces to launch the Arizona Testing Blitz with the goal of increasing COVID-19 testing statewide. The Arizona Testing Blitz aims to test 10,000-20,000 Arizonans for COVID-19 every Saturday for three consecutive weeks, beginning Saturday, May 2, 2020.

“Arizona has placed an emphasis on ramping up testing, but we need more,” Governor Ducey said. “As our healthcare partners develop a more reliable supply of testing materials, we’re working together to take testing availability to the next level. The Arizona Testing Blitz is just one step of many that will expand access to testing for Arizonans and provide us with better data to develop Arizona specific solutions and re-energize our economy.”

As part of the Arizona Testing Blitz, drive-through or onsite testing will be available at various locations across the state. Arizonans can find the nearest testing location and hours of operation as well as pre-register by visiting azhealth.gov/TestingBlitz. Testing will be available to anyone who thinks they have been exposed to and could be infected with COVID-19 and will be based on criteria set by each testing site.

“We know that rapidly identifying cases, conducting case follow-up, and performing contact tracing will help slow the transmission of COVID-19 in our communities,” said Dr. Cara Christ, ADHS director. “Success in these areas requires an increase in our testing capacity, and the Arizona Testing Blitz will help allow those who want to be tested, get tested. We’re appreciative of our participating partners who will provide additional testing for Arizonans over the next few weeks.”

On Friday, April 24, ADHS invited partners to participate in this statewide, coordinated event. To date, groups including Banner Health and Walgreens have answered the call and additional partners are expected to join. Other partners who want to participate in the Arizona Testing Blitz can contact [email protected]

ADHS continues to work with healthcare partners and commercial and clinical laboratories to expand testing capacity in Arizona. ADHS has partnered to provide additional funding to laboratories, remove restrictions on testing criteria for those with adequate testing supplies and personal protective equipment, and distribute rapid testing machines and specimen collection kits to partners.

The Governor’s Office and ADHS are actively monitoring COVID-19 spread throughout Arizona. As of today, all 15 Arizona counties have confirmed cases with a combined total of 6,716 cases across the state. Commercial labs, hospital labs, and the Arizona State Public Health Laboratory continue to provide diagnostic testing and have performed 66,543 tests to date.

For more information about the COVID-19 response in Arizona, go online to azhealth.gov/COVID19.