Emergency Information
Lightning caused wildfire on Sitgreaves Mountain being monitored
A recent lightning strike on the upper third of the northeast slope of Sitgreaves Mountain is showing a plume of smoke and is visible from the communities of Spring Valley, Bellemont, and Parks. The "Rock Fire" is just over half an acre in size and is burning within the Eagle Rock Fire burn scar of 2010. The fire is located in steep terrain and has been receiving intermittent moisture since it was discovered on Sunday September 1.
Due to its location, Kaibab National Forest Managers have decided to avoid exposing firefighters to the difficult topography and high volume of snags in the area. This incident will be monitored from road systems around the base of the mountain and periodically by aircraft. There is no danger or threat to private property or residences. Firefighters will be on scene daily to observe behavior and plan for future actions as the fire moves naturally on the terrain.
Weather forecasts are predicting more isolated thunderstorms over the area for the week ahead which may influence fire behavior and visibility.
Additional information about the Rock fire will become available as the situation develops. Information about other fires and the Kaibab National Forest can be obtained through the following sources:
- InciWeb https://inciweb.nwcg.gov/
- Twitter: www.twitter.com/KaibabNF
- Kaibab Facebook: www.facebook.com/KaibabNF
- Kaibab website “Recent News”: www.fs.usda.gov/kaibab
- Fire Information Recorded Phone line: 928-635-8311
High Pollution Advisory issued for ozone effective September 6 in the Phoenix area
The Arizona Department of Environmental Quality (ADEQ) is issuing a High Pollution Advisory (HPA) for ozone effective September 6, in the Phoenix area. ADEQ recommends that people limit outdoor activity while the HPA is in effect, especially children and adults with respiratory problems.
Ground level ozone forms when two types of pollutants—volatile organic compounds (VOCs) and nitrogen oxides (NOx)—react in sunlight. These pollutants come primarily from automobiles, but also from other sources including industries, power plants and products, such as solvents and paints. Generally, the highest levels of ozone occur in the afternoon.
Check the Hourly Air Quality Forecast on the Air Arizona Mobile App
Apple iTunes > | Google Play >
Health Impacts
People most vulnerable to the impacts of air pollution include children, older adults, adults exercising outdoors, people with heart or lung disease and those suffering from asthma and bronchitis. Exposure can increase the number and severity of asthma attacks, cause or aggravate bronchitis or other lung disease and reduce the body’s ability to fight infection. Symptoms may include itchy eyes, nose, and throat, wheezing, coughing, shortness of breath, chest pain and upper respiratory issues.
Please help reduce ozone by doing one or more of the following:
- Drive as little as possible, carpool, use public transit or telecommute
- Re-fuel your vehicle in the evening
- Avoid waiting in long drive-thru lines, for example, at coffee shops, fast-food restaurants or banks – park your car and go inside
- Use low-VOC (Volatile Organic Compounds) or water-based paints, stains, finishes and paint strippers – delay big painting projects
- Make sure containers of household cleaners, garage and yard chemicals and other solvents are sealed properly to prevent vapors from evaporating into the air
Be Air Aware!
Stay informed and be a part of the ADEQ air quality challenge. Together we can make a difference to improve air quality for everyone in Arizona by following three simple steps. | Learn More >
BACKGROUND
High Pollution Advisory (HPA) | Notifies the public that the level of an air pollutant is forecast to exceed the federal health standard.
Health Watch (HW) | Notifies the public that the level of an air pollutant is forecast to approach the federal health standard.
Particulate Matter Fact Sheet | View >
Ozone Fact Sheet | View >
FIND THE FORECAST
ADEQ Hourly Air Quality Forecast | View >
Text or Email Alerts | Subscribe >
Air Arizona Mobile App | Learn More >
Precautions recommended to prevent rabies
Coconino County Health and Human Services (CCHHS) has received several reports of potential and confirmed human and domestic animal exposures to rabid wildlife.
A recent confirmed exposure occurred near Jacob Lake southeast of Fredonia, Arizona. An individual and a dog encountered a bat that subsequently tested positive for rabies. The individual is receiving rabies prophylaxis treatment and the vaccinated dog has been placed in a 10-day at-home quarantine for observation.
A potential rabies exposure occurred in a Flagstaff neighborhood where two dogs interacted with a dead skunk found in the dogs’ pen. As a result, the skunk is being tested for rabies to confirm if the dogs were exposed to the rabies virus. Test results are pending.
An additional potential exposure involved a Flagstaff resident and two cats that were exposed to a bat suspected to have rabies. Test results in this case are also pending.
CCHHS is reminding individuals to use caution to protect against rabies exposure when hiking, camping or in situation where wildlife may be present. Health officials recommend the following precautions to protect against rabies:
- Avoid wildlife, especially those exhibiting unusual wildlife behaviors which can include; showing no fear of humans, aggressive behavior, staggering and/or acting sickly, and nocturnal mammals active during daytime.
- Keep all pets current on vaccinations and obey leash laws.
- Always keep pets away from wild animals.
- Never pick up, touch, or feed wild or unfamiliar animals, even if they do not appear sick or aggressive.
- Report any wild animals exhibiting erratic or aggressive behavior.
- Seek immediate medical attention if bitten by or when there is direct contact with a wild animal.
- Pet owners should seek medical care from their veterinarian if their pet is bitten by wildlife.
Rabies is a virus spread by the bite of an infected animal or direct contact with the saliva of an infected animal (such as via a scratch or tear in the skin). In Arizona, bats, skunks, and foxes are the main animal sources of rabies. Rabies causes severe damage to the central nervous system and usually leads to death once symptoms appear. However, effects of the virus are preventable if proper medical treatment is obtained within the proper timeframe.
Human exposures to rabid animals are usually rare, but domestic animals, such as cats and dogs often come into contact with wild animals and are at an increased risk. Routine rabies vaccination will help protect your pet against rabies.
Interactions with a bat or a bat found in a home should be reported to the Coconino County Health and Human Services Animal Management Program at 928-679-8756. Unusual wildlife sightings or behavior should also be reported. To report an emergency involving wildlife, call 911.
For more information on rabies visit www.azhealth.gov/rabies.
River Fire still visible
Summary: The River Fire grew in size today, reaching 1,800 acres before nightfall. It remains on top of New River Mesa, continuing to burn in grass and light brush north and east away from communities and other infrastructure. Firefighters will continue to monitor the River Fire’s progression and direction, and are ready to call in additional air and ground resources if necessary.
Firefighter and public safety remains the number one priority. The suppression response strategy is to prevent the River Fire from moving toward communities while limiting firefighter exposure. Tonto National Forest fire managers are coordinating with local emergency response agencies and sharing updated information as it becomes available. As long as the fire is not threatening communities, firefighters will not build fireline in areas with the potential to risk their safety because of excessive heat and the distance from roads and access to rapid medical help if needed.
Once the sun goes down, nearby residents may see the fire’s glow in the distance and communities near New River Mesa may smell smoke overnight as the air cools and smoke settles into the drainages below.
Location:
- Approximately 7 miles north of Cave Creek, and 3.5 miles east of New River
- Nearest town is New River
Start Date: 9/3/2019
Size: 1,800 acres
Percent Contained: 0
Cause: Lightning
River Fire still visible; firefighters continue to monitor progression and direction
The River Fire grew in size today, reaching 1,800 acres before nightfall. It remains on top of New River Mesa, continuing to burn in grass and light brush north and east away from communities and other infrastructure. Firefighters will continue to monitor the River Fire’s progression and direction, and are ready to call in additional air and ground resources if necessary.
Firefighter and public safety remains the number one priority. The suppression response strategy is to prevent the River Fire from moving toward communities while limiting firefighter exposure. Tonto National Forest fire managers are coordinating with local emergency response agencies and sharing updated information as it becomes available. As long as the fire is not threatening communities, firefighters will not build fireline in areas with the potential to risk their safety because of excessive heat and the distance from roads and access to rapid medical help if needed.
Once the sun goes down, nearby residents may see the fire’s glow in the distance and communities near New River Mesa may smell smoke overnight as the air cools and smoke settles into the drainages below.
River Fire Overview
Location:
- Approximately 7 miles north of Cave Creek, and 3.5 miles east of New River
- Nearest town is New River
Size: 1,800 acres
Percent Contained: 0
Cause: Lightning
Redmond Fire reported to Tonto National Forest
The Redmond Fire was reported on Tuesday afternoon. The fire is burning near the southern edge of the Salt River Wilderness Area north of Globe. The fire has grown to approximately 100 acres, fueled by dry grass and thunderstorm winds. Smoke is visible from State Route 188, as well as US Highways 60 and 70. There are no threats near the fire.
The public is asked to avoid Forest Roads 644 and 223 to allow firefighters to safely work in the area. Smoke will continue to be visible through the afternoon as winds increase, and communities in the area may smell smoke as the air settles down drainages at night.
Location:
Approximately 15 miles north of Globe
Nearest town is Globe
Start Date: 9/3/2019
Size: 100 acres
Percent Contained: 0
Cause: Lightning
River Fire ignites on Tonto National Forest
The River Fire was reported on Tuesday evening, after a monsoon storm moved through the area. Located on top of New River Mesa, dry grass and windy conditions caused the fire to grow rapidly and be visible from many parts of the north valley after dark. Firefighters responded last night, and are focusing their efforts on securing the southern edge of the fire.
The fire is currently moving north and east, away from communities and into areas where there are not threats to homes or other infrastructure. Winter rains have produced an abundance of fine fuels (grass) that has cured, which combined with the lack of monsoon rains continues to challenge suppression efforts for any new starts.
Firefighters will be faced with steep terrain, lack of road access, excessive heat, and the potential for afternoon thunderstorm winds. The safety of firefighters is always our highest priority, and we will work to secure the edge closest to communities while limiting firefighter exposure to these challenges.
Smoke may be visible in the afternoon as afternoon winds increase, and communities in the area may smell smoke as the air settles into the drainages below the Mesa at night.
River Fire overview
Location:
- Approximately 7 miles northwest of Cave Creek, and 14 miles east of Black Canyon City
- Nearest town is Cave Creek
Start Date: 9/3/2019
Size: 400 acres
Percent Contained: 0
Cause: Lightning
Eden Fire allowed to burn near Clints Well
- Eden Fire Inciweb site: https://inciweb.nwcg.gov/incident/6560/
- Discovery date: August 29, 2019.
- Cause: Lightning.
- Containment: 0 percent.
- Origin location: Approximately 4 miles northeast of Clints Well (Latitude/Longitude: 34° 37.950N, -111° 16.260W).
- Current size: 375 acres.
- Current resources: 3 engines, 2 crews, 2 Water tenders a dozer and overhead personnel. Total approx. personnel: 37.
- Predicted smoke impacts: Expect increased smoke production over the next few days, with the most significant impacts in the Clint Wells area, including SunriseResort and Happy Jack Lodge. The communities within the Blue Ridge area and as far south as Payson will also be effected with smoke at times. Today’s wind shift could add smoke impacts to Strawberry, Pine, Payson and the Camp Verde. These communities may also experience smoke impacts in the evening and overnight as smoke drains into those lower elevations. 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. Additionally, there may be times when ADOT personnel will be closing sections of Lake Mary Road and state Route 87 or using a pilot car when there is reduced visibility.
- 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 211A.
Sheridan Fire update; rehabilitation efforts begin
Due to decreased fire activity we will no longer be sending out a daily News Release. We will only share information if there is a significant event or change in fire behavior.
With less fire activity expected to continue due to scattered thunder showers and higher humidity fire crews are shifting their focus to rehabilitation efforts in areas impacted by the Sheridan Fire as Forest officials look at reducing the current closure area.
Sheridan Fire Overview
Location: 23 miles Northwest of Prescott, AZ on the Chino Valley District (T16N, R6W, S16)Size: 17,066 acres
Percent Contained: 49%
Cause: Lightning
Vegetation: Pinyon-Juniper, Grass and Brush
Resources: Approx. 81 personnel including: 2-Engines, 2-Crews and 1-Helicopter
Current Situation: Some interior hot spots are still being worked, but rehabilitation of the Sheridan Fire area is the focus of firefighters today. Fire crew’s handlines and berms created bydozer lines that were constructed in order to control the spread of the fire are now being rehabilitated and returned to their natural state. In other areas that were impacted by the fire“Chipping” is continuing. Chipping is the process whereby brush, limbs and other organic material that were removed in order to hamper fire spread are being mechanically chipped and dispersed back to the forest floor. Some interior hot spots are still being worked by fire crews.
Closure: Forest officials are re-evaluating the current Sheridan Fire area closure order with a reduction expected sometime this week. The current closure area map and detailed description are available on Inciweb and on the Prescott National Forest website.
The public can obtain additional information via the following:
- Prescott NF Forest Website: http://www.fs.usda.gov/prescott/
- Twitter: @PrescottNF
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/PrescottNF/
- Arizona Fire Restrictions: https://www.firerestrictions.us/az/
- Fire Information: (928) 925-1111
- Inciweb: https://inciweb.nwcg.gov/incident/6522/
Local Ranger Stations:
- Bradshaw Ranger District (928) 443-8000
- Chino Valley Ranger District (928) 777-2200
- Verde Ranger District (928) 567-4121
First Responder exercise at Cromer School in Coconino County
On Friday September 6th, 2019 the Coconino County Sheriff’s Office will be conducting a Critical Incident Response Drill at Cromer School in the Doney Park area. The drill will occur between 5 pm – 9 pm and will involve personnel from Coconino County Sheriff’s Office, Flagstaff Fire Department, Guardian Medical Transport, Flagstaff School District, National Park Service “Walnut Canyon “ and Summit Fire District.
We want residents to be aware that this training will result in increased police and fire activity in the area. The training will be a reality-based exercise to provide first responders an opportunity to practice integrated response to critical incidents.
The Sheriff’s Office would like to thank Cromer School for providing the venue for this training.
Grand Canyon returns to normal water operations
The National Park Service would like to thank its partners, staff, residents, and visitors for conserving water during this time and for their continued water conservation efforts.
Sheridan Fire update; local units resume command of fire
A significant reduction in fire crews and other resources occurred this morning as the Type 3 Team transferred command of the Sheridan Fire back to the local unit. Return of monsoon weather patterns considerably reduced fire activity as rehabilitation efforts begin.
Sheridan Fire Overview
Location: 23 miles Northwest of Prescott, AZ on the Chino Valley District (T16N, R6W, S16)Size: 17,066 acres
Percent Contained: 49%
Cause: Lightning
Vegetation: Pinyon-Juniper, Grass and Brush
Resources: Approx. 81 personnel including: 2-Engines, 2-Crews and 1-Helicopter
Current Situation: The Arizona Central West Zone Type 3 Incident Management Team departed the Sheridan Fire this morning and returned command of the fire to a Type 4 organization largely comprised of Prescott National Forest fire crews and other resources. The focus of fire crews is transferring to the mop up phase of the fire and rehabilitation efforts of the affected area.
Closure: The area closure remains in effect over the Sheridan Fire area for firefighter and public safety. The closure area includes Camp Wood Road and the fire area south of Walnut Creek Road; The Walnut Creek Road remains open. Visitors and residents near the closure area should be alert for fire vehicles and equipment. A map and detailed description of the closure area are available on Inciweb and on the Prescott National Forest website.
Smoke: Visible smoke is not expected today and should not impact air quality in the surrounding area.
The public can obtain additional information via the following:
- Prescott NF Forest Website: http://www.fs.usda.gov/prescott/
- Twitter: @PrescottNF
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/PrescottNF/
- Arizona Fire Restrictions: https://www.firerestrictions.us/az/
- Fire Information: (928) 925-1111
- Inciweb: https://inciweb.nwcg.gov/incident/6522/
Rain slows Sheridan Fire spread as transition plans commence
Isolated rains associated with thunderstorms considerably slowed the spread of the Sheridan Fire yesterday allowing fire crews to accomplish significant containment. Today the Type 3 Team prepares for a transition back to local units.
Sheridan Fire Overview
Current Situation: Isolated thunderstorms cooled the Sheridan Fire yesterday and fire growth was minimal. With cooler temperatures and higher humidity predicted for the next several days smoke and fire spread are expected to diminish. The Arizona Central West Zone Type 3 Incident Management Team that assumed command of the Sheridan Fire on August 17 will begin transition meetings and pre-strategy planning with the Type 4 organization this afternoon. The Type 4 organization is largely comprised of Prescott National Forest fire crews and resources who have already been engaged on the Sheridan Fire. The Type 4 organization will assume command of the fire tomorrow morning. There are no homes or structures threatened.
Closure: The area closure remains in effect over the Sheridan Fire area for firefighter and public safety. The closure area includes Camp Wood Road and the fire area south of Walnut Creek Road; The Walnut Creek Road remains open. Visitors and residents near the closure area should be alert for fire vehicles and equipment. A map and detailed description of the closure area are available on Inciweb and on the Prescott National Forest website.
Smoke: Visible smoke will continue to dissipate today due to lower temperatures, an increase in humidity and possible thunder showers slowing the growth of the fire. Incident-specific smoke monitors are in place near Paulden to monitor area impacts. In the unlikely event that smoke conditions increase today it is recommended that those more sensitive to smoke stay indoors with windows and doors closed and bring pets inside.
Location: 23 miles Northwest of Prescott, AZ on the Chino Valley District (T16N, R6W, S16)
Size: 17,066 acres
Percent Contained: 49%
Cause: Lightning
Vegetation: Pinyon-Juniper, Grass and Brush
Resources: Approx. 167 personnel including: 5-Engines, 2-Crews, 1-Helicopter, 2-Masticators, 1- Dozer
Prescott Fire Information Phone: 928-925-1111
Prescott National Forest – Fire Closure Order & Map: https://www.fs.usda.gov/prescott
InciWeb: https://inciweb.nwcg.gov/incident/6522/
Prescott National Forest Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/PrescottNF/
Prescott National Forest Twitter: https://twitter.com/PrescottNF
High Pollution Advisory issued for ozone effective September 3 in the Phoenix area
The Arizona Department of Environmental Quality (ADEQ) is issuing a High Pollution Advisory (HPA) for ozone effective September 3 in the Phoenix area. ADEQ recommends that people limit outdoor activity while the HPA is in effect, especially children and adults with respiratory problems.
Ground level ozone forms when two types of pollutants—volatile organic compounds (VOCs) and nitrogen oxides (NOx)—react in sunlight. These pollutants come primarily from automobiles, but also from other sources including industries, power plants and products, such as solvents and paints. Generally, the highest levels of ozone occur in the afternoon.
Check the Hourly Air Quality Forecast on the Air Arizona Mobile App
Apple iTunes > | Google Play >
Health Impacts
People most vulnerable to the impacts of air pollution include children, older adults, adults exercising outdoors, people with heart or lung disease and those suffering from asthma and bronchitis. Exposure can increase the number and severity of asthma attacks, cause or aggravate bronchitis or other lung disease and reduce the body’s ability to fight infection. Symptoms may include itchy eyes, nose, and throat, wheezing, coughing, shortness of breath, chest pain and upper respiratory issues.
Please help reduce ozone by doing one or more of the following:
- Drive as little as possible, carpool, use public transit or telecommute
- Re-fuel your vehicle in the evening
- Avoid waiting in long drive-thru lines, for example, at coffee shops, fast-food restaurants or banks – park your car and go inside
- Use low-VOC (Volatile Organic Compounds) or water-based paints, stains, finishes and paint strippers – delay big painting projects
- Make sure containers of household cleaners, garage and yard chemicals and other solvents are sealed properly to prevent vapors from evaporating into the air
Be Air Aware!
Stay informed and be a part of the ADEQ air quality challenge. Together we can make a difference to improve air quality for everyone in Arizona by following three simple steps. | Learn More >
BACKGROUND
High Pollution Advisory (HPA) | Notifies the public that the level of an air pollutant is forecast to exceed the federal health standard.
Health Watch (HW) | Notifies the public that the level of an air pollutant is forecast to approach the federal health standard.
Particulate Matter Fact Sheet | View >
Ozone Fact Sheet | View >
Firefighters monitor and enhance containment lines for Sheridan Fire
Slightly lower temperatures and higher humidity slows fire growth allowing fire crews and heavy equipment operators to enhance and monitor containment lines.
Current Situation: Smoke will continue to dissipate as slightly lower temperatures and a return of higher humidity is expected to slow fire growth. Firing operations are suspended again today, allowing heavy equipment operators to improve contingency lines while fire crews continue to monitor interior burning on both the west and southwest areas of the fire. The overall objective of resource benefits to enhance more resilient vegetation and improved wildlife habitat continues. The fire, which was started from a lightning strike on August 5, continues to be allowed to fulfill its natural role.
There are no homes or structures threatened.
Closure: The area closure remains in effect over the Sheridan Fire area for firefighter and public safety. The closure area includes Camp Wood Road and the entire fire area south of Walnut Creek Road; however Walnut Creek Road remains open. Visitors and residents near the closure area should be alert for fire vehicles and equipment. A map and detailed description of the closure area are available on Inciweb and on the Prescott National Forest website.
Smoke:
Visible smoke may continue to dissipate today due
to slightly lower temperatures and an increase in humidity slowing the growth of the fire. Incident-specific smoke monitors are in place near Paulden to monitor area
impacts. In the unlikely event that smoke conditions increase today it is recommended that those more sensitive to smoke stay indoors with windows and doors closed, and bring pets inside.
Location: 23 miles Northwest of Prescott, AZ on the Chino Valley District (T16N, R6W, S16)
Size: 16,842 acres
Percent Contained: 0%
Cause: Lightning
Vegetation: Pinyon-Juniper, Grass and Brush
Resources: Approx. 202 personnel including: 6-Engines, 3-Water Tenders, 3-Crews, 2-Helicopters, 4-Masticators, 1- Dozer
Prescott Fire Information Phone: 928-925-1111
Prescott National Forest – Fire Closure Order & Map: https://www.fs.usda.gov/prescott
InciWeb: https://inciweb.nwcg.gov/incident/6522/
Prescott National Forest Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/PrescottNF/
Prescott National Forest Twitter: https://twitter.com/PrescottNF
Clair Fire 55 percent contained
Summary: The Clair Fire did not increase significantly in size today, because of slightly higher humidity and light winds. Firefighters on the ground and in the air were able to douse hot spots with water from helicopters, and firefighters on the ground will continue to build fireline to prevent the Clair Fire from moving any closer to Bartlett Lake.
The North Lake Road (FR458), reopened to the public this morning. Please drive slowly when travelling to Bartlett Lake as fire crews continue to work in the area, giving them space to work safely. Bartlett Flats and SB Cove Shoreline camping area, Yellow Cliffs Boat Launch, and Rattlesnake Cove Picnic Site are open.
Location: Approximately 18 miles east/northeast of Cave Creek, near Bartlett Reservoir
Start Date: 8/29/2019
Size: 680 acres
Percent Contained: 55%
Cause: Lightning
Sheridan Fire update: lower humidity prompts change in tactics
Slightly lower humidity yesterday prompted fire crews to change tactics due to the increase of fire behavior. Crews today will monitor and improve the fireline, benefitting from their earlier firing efforts.
Sheridan Fire Overview
Location: 23 miles Northwest of Prescott, AZ on the Chino Valley District (T16N, R6W, S16) Size:16,227
Percent Contained: 0%
Cause: Lightning
Vegetation: Pinyon-Juniper, Grass and Brush
Resources: Approx. 211 personnel including: 8-Engines, 4-Water Tenders, 4-Crews, 2-Helicopters, 4-Masticators, 1- Dozer
Current Situation:
Smoke once again appeared on the horizon as fire crews temporarily suspended firing operations in order to monitor and patrol the southwest section of the fire where the most activity occurred yesterday. With lower humidity expected to continue today tactics should remain the same as the fire continues to burn in overgrown chaparral. Helicopters have also suspended firing operations for today and will switch their focus to reconnaissance and mapping missions.
On the southeast section of the fire crews are working to improve contingency lines. While tactics for today have changed, the overall objective of resource benefits for more resilient vegetation and improved wildlife habitat remain the same. The fire, which was started from a lightning strike on August 5, continues to be allowed to fulfill its natural role.
There are no homes or structures threatened.
Closure: The area closure remains in effect over the Sheridan Fire area for firefighter and public safety. The closure area includes Camp Wood Road and the entire fire area south of Walnut Creek Road; however Walnut Creek Road remains open. Visitors and residents near the closure area should be alert for fire vehicles and equipment. A map and detailed description of the closure area are available on Inciweb and on the Prescott National Forest website.
Smoke:
Visible smoke may continue to increase today due to the lower humidity and increase in fire behavior. Incident-specific smoke monitors are in place near Paulden to monitor area impacts.
If smoke conditions increase today it is recommended that those more sensitive to smoke stay indoors with windows and doors closed, and bring pets inside.
Prescott Fire Information Phone: 928-925-1111
Prescott National Forest – Fire Closure Order & Map: https://www.fs.usda.gov/prescott
InciWeb: https://inciweb.nwcg.gov/incident/6522/
Prescott National Forest Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/PrescottNF/
Prescott National Forest Twitter: https://twitter.com/PrescottNF
Clair Fire on Tonto National Forest is 25 percent contained
The lightning caused Clair Fire was reported on Thursday, August 29. Burning in grass and desert shrub, it grew to approximately 670 acres yesterday afternoon because of outflow winds from nearby thunderstorms. The fire did not receive any rain, but the area was aided by an increase in humidity overnight. Firefighters on the ground with support from helicopter and airtankers, will work to continue securing the fire’s edge. Firefighters will be challenged by another day of excessive heat.
The North Lake Road (FR458), remains closed to protect public safety and allow firefighters to safely work near the road. This impacts the Bartlett Flats and SB Cove Shoreline camping areas, Yellow Cliffs Boat Launch, and Rattlesnake Cove Picnic site. There are currently no camping opportunities along Bartlett Lake due to the proximity of the Clair Fire. North Lake Road will be reopened as soon as the firefighters are not working in the area, and the fire no longer threatens recreation areas.
Location: Approximately 18 miles east/northeast of Cave Creek, near Bartlett Reservoir
Start Date: 8/29/2019
Size: 670 acres
Percent Contained: 25%
Cause: Lightning
Sheridan Fire update: Walnut Creek Rd. now open
Closure: The area closure remains in effect over the Sheridan Fire area for firefighter and public safety. The closure area includes Camp Wood Road and the entire fire area south of Walnut Creek Road. The Walnut Creek Road is now open. Visitors and residents near the closure area should be alert for fire vehicles and equipment. A map and detailed description of the closure area are available on Inciweb and on the Prescott National Forest website.
Smoke: Very little smoke was visible over the fire yesterday and the temporary air quality monitor in Paulden showed air quality being well into the good range all day. Smoke may visible over the fire today, particularly in the afternoon and early evening hours. Smoke impacts generally extend to the north and northeast of the fire area. Fire operations managers attempt to minimize smoke impacts when and where possible.
For additional fire information:
Prescott Fire Information Phone: 928-925-1111
Prescott National Forest – Fire Closure Order & Map: https://www.fs.usda.gov/prescott
InciWeb: https://inciweb.nwcg.gov/incident/6522/
Prescott National Forest Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/PrescottNF/
Prescott National Forest Twitter: https://twitter.com/PrescottNF
Sheridan Fire Overview
Location: 23 miles Northwest of Prescott, AZ on the Chino Valley District (T16N, R6W, S16)
Start Date: August 5, 2019
Current Size: 15,689 acres
Percent Contained: 0%
Cause: Lightning
Vegetation: Pinyon-Juniper, Grass, and Brush
Resources: Approx. 213 personnel including: 8 Engines, 4 Water Tenders, 4 Masticators, 3 Crews, 2 Helicopter
High Pollution Advisory issued for ozone effective August 30 and 31 and September 1 in the Phoenix area
The Arizona Department of Environmental Quality (ADEQ) is issuing a High Pollution Advisory (HPA) for ozone effective August 30 and 31 and September 1 in the Phoenix area. ADEQ recommends that people limit outdoor activity while the HPA is in effect, especially children and adults with respiratory problems.
Ground level ozone forms when two types of pollutants—volatile organic compounds (VOCs) and nitrogen oxides (NOx)—react in sunlight. These pollutants come primarily from automobiles, but also from other sources including industries, power plants and products, such as solvents and paints. Generally, the highest levels of ozone occur in the afternoon.
Check the Hourly Air Quality Forecast on the Air Arizona Mobile App
Apple iTunes > | Google Play >
Health Impacts
People most vulnerable to the impacts of air pollution include children, older adults, adults exercising outdoors, people with heart or lung disease and those suffering from asthma and bronchitis. Exposure can increase the number and severity of asthma attacks, cause or aggravate bronchitis or other lung disease and reduce the body’s ability to fight infection. Symptoms may include itchy eyes, nose, and throat, wheezing, coughing, shortness of breath, chest pain and upper respiratory issues.
Please help reduce ozone by doing one or more of the following:
- Drive as little as possible, carpool, use public transit or telecommute
- Re-fuel your vehicle in the evening
- Avoid waiting in long drive-thru lines, for example, at coffee shops, fast-food restaurants or banks – park your car and go inside
- Use low-VOC (Volatile Organic Compounds) or water-based paints, stains, finishes and paint strippers – delay big painting projects
- Make sure containers of household cleaners, garage and yard chemicals and other solvents are sealed properly to prevent vapors from evaporating into the air
Be Air Aware!
Stay informed and be a part of the ADEQ air quality challenge. Together we can make a difference to improve air quality for everyone in Arizona by following three simple steps. | Learn More >
BACKGROUND
High Pollution Advisory (HPA) | Notifies the public that the level of an air pollutant is forecast to exceed the federal health standard.
Health Watch (HW) | Notifies the public that the level of an air pollutant is forecast to approach the federal health standard.
Particulate Matter Fact Sheet | View >
Ozone Fact Sheet | View >
FIND THE FORECAST
ADEQ Hourly Air Quality Forecast | View >
Text or Email Alerts | Subscribe >
Air Arizona Mobile App | Learn More >
