Emergency Information
Castle Fire smoke is due to warming trend
The visible increase in smoke from the Castle Fire is due to the warmer and drier trend in weather. Yesterday, the Castle Fire continued to spread into Lookout Canyon generating smoke both from its movement south to the confinement lines and from interior pockets of dead and down vegetation fanned by light winds. These pockets of dead and down fuel will continue smoldering for several weeks or until a significant amount of wetting rain occurs on the fire area.
Fire managers took advantage of ideal weather conditions to widen the lines of confinement using firing operations to stay ahead of the main fire and regulate fire intensities. Overall, fire managers were very pleased with the work accomplished yesterday which included rehab and cleanup of suppression activities from the masticators, dozers and skidders.
The sporadic monsoon patterns have been essential in helping fire managers attain the desired low to moderate fire behavior needed to consume forest litter and dead down vegetation, while protecting stands of ponderosa pine and improving forest health.
Today's weather forecast calls for mostly sunny with no precipitation. The warmer and drier trend is forecasted to continue until Thursday. Under these favorable weather conditions, the Castle Fire is expected to continue its push through Lookout Canyon towards Dugway. Smoke will be visible as fire behavior increases during the peak burning period which is mid-day to late afternoon.
Soon after the Castle Fire started on July 12th, fire managers pre-identified the 19,632-acre planning area where the lightning-caused wildfire would be allowed to fulfill its natural role within a fire-dependent ecosystem. The fire has burned through 92% of the planning area, burning through a significant amount of dead and down trees and some mixed conifer species. By allowing the wildfire to naturally burn through this area, the ecosystem will become healthier and more resilient.
A Closure Order remains in effect for the Castle Fire area: https://inciweb.nwcg.gov/incident/6439/
CASTLE FIRE OVERVIEW
- Discovery Date: July 12, 2019.
- Cause: Lightning.
- Location (point of origin): Approximately 11 miles south of Jacob Lake, 3 miles west of Highway 67, and just east of Forest Road 761 near Oquer Canyon on the North Kaibab Ranger District of the Kaibab National Forest.
- Current Resources: One crew, four engines, a helicopter, a dozer, four masticators, two feller bunchers, one skidder, and miscellaneous fire management personnel. Total personnel: approximately 92.
- Current Size: About 18,900 acres and it has spread across about 92% of the 19,632-acre planning area.
- Predicted Smoke Impacts: Smoke is expected to be visible from both the north and south rims of Grand Canyon National Park, Jacob Lake, Highway 67, Highway 89A, and Fredonia.
- Current Closures: Kaibab National Forest managers have implemented a temporary Closure Order for the Castle Fire area in order to provide for public and firefighter safety. For specific information about the Closure Order, please visit: https://inciweb.nwcg.gov/incident/6439/
- Recent and Current Operations: Wildland fire crews plan to continue improving roads and other designated perimeters within which the fire can move. Current weather conditions may influence the use of firing operations which may be conducted as needed in order to strengthen control lines. A Temporary Flight Restriction (TFR) is in place over the fire area.
Kaibab National Forest information is available through the following sources:
- 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
Williams Ranger District will manage Boulin Fire for multiple objectives
Fire officials on the Williams Ranger District of the Kaibab National Forest are currently managing a new fire start called the Boulin Fire. The Boulin Fire, discovered on August 6, was caused by lightning and has grown to approximately 10 acres. It is located near the junction of forest roads 141 and 713 approximately 9 miles north of Interstate 40 at the northwest corner of Spring Valley.
Managers will use a multiple strategies that will ultimately contain this fire within a defined planning area of approximately 4200 acres. Fire will be allowed to move towards designated roads that serve as safe and effective control features. Fire activity may fluctuate periodically as daily weather conditions influence fire behavior and spread.
Objectives include allowing the fire to fulfill its natural role in the ecosystem, while increasing protection of private property, wildlife habitat, cultural resources, and reducing hazardous fuels.
Firefighters will occasionally use a management ignition strategy in order to keep fire at a low to moderate intensity minimizing severity. This method will also secure containment lines before fire arrives at the designated control boundaries.
Smoke will continue to be noticeable from residential areas and surrounding communities that include Spring Valley, Parks, Red Lakes, Pumpkin Center, and Highway 64.
Smoke dispersion will be monitored closely, however may settle in low lying areas in the vicinity over night, but will lift and clear out rapidly as the ground surface warms in early morning hours.
Additional information about the Boulin Fire, and the Kaibab National Forest can be obtained through the following sources:
- InciWeb inciweb.nwcg.gov/incident/6511/
- Twitter: www.twitter.com/KaibabNF
- Kaibab Facebook: www.facebook.com/KaibabNF
- Kaibab website “Recent News”: www.fs.usda.gov/kaibab
- Fire Information Recorded Phone line: 928-635-8311
Health Watch issued for ozone effective Aug. 12, 2019, in Phoenix area
The Arizona Department of Environmental Quality (ADEQ) is issuing a Health Watch (HW) for ozone effective August 12, 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.
Air Arizona Mobile App | Check the Hourly Air Quality Forecast
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 >
Castle Fire pushes out into Lookout Canyon and gains additional acreage
Smoke was visible yesterday over the Castle Fire as it grew an additional 662 acres while it established itself in unburned fuel east of Forest Road 226 in the Lookout Canyon area. Following four days in a row of no growth, the combination of increased daytime temperatures, light winds, no precipitation and available fuels were enough to encourage additional spread. Aerial ignitions and firing operations were also successfully conducted to help check and direct the fire's movement through the canyon.
Mastication work along Forest Road 226 continues and firing operations along the fire's southeastern perimeter are helping to fortify the control lines. Firefighters are making excellent progress and staying ahead of the fire, while ensuring that the firing operations are effective and conducted safely.
Today's weather forecast calls for no chance of rain, mostly sunny on Monday with no precipitation. Under these favorable weather conditions, the Castle Fire is expected to continue working its way through Lookout Canyon towards Dugway. Smoke will be visible as fire behavior increases during the peak burning period which is mid-day to late afternoon.
Soon after the Castle Fire started on July 12th, fire managers pre-identified the 19,632-acre planning area where the lightning-caused wildfire would be allowed to fulfill its natural role within a fire-dependent ecosystem. The fire has burned through 88% of the planning area, burning through a significant amount of dead and down trees and some mixed conifer species. By allowing the wildfire to naturally burn through this area, the ecosystem will become healthier and more resilient.
The Castle Fire poses no danger to structures or other local infrastructure.
A Closure Order remains in effect for the Castle Fire area: https://inciweb.nwcg.gov/incident/6439/
CASTLE FIRE OVERVIEW
- Discovery Date: July 12, 2019.
- Cause: Lightning.
- Location (point of origin): Approximately 11 miles south of Jacob Lake, 3 miles west of Highway 67, and just east of Forest Road 761 near Oquer Canyon on the North Kaibab Ranger District of the Kaibab National Forest.
- Current Resources: One crew, four engines, a helicopter, a dozer, four masticators, two feller bunchers, one skidder, and miscellaneous fire management personnel. Total personnel: approximately 90.
- Current Size: About 17,200 acres and it has spread across about 88% of the 19,632-acre planning area.
- Predicted Smoke Impacts: Smoke is expected to be visible from both the north and south rims of Grand Canyon National Park, Jacob Lake, Highway 67, Highway 89A, and Fredonia.
- Current Closures: Kaibab National Forest managers have implemented a temporary Closure Order for the Castle Fire area in order to provide for public and firefighter safety. For specific information about the Closure Order, please visit: https://inciweb.nwcg.gov/incident/6439/
- Recent and Current Operations: Wildland fire crews plan to continue improving roads and other designated perimeters within which the fire can move. Current weather conditions may influence the use of firing operations which may be conducted as needed in order to strengthen control lines. A Temporary Flight Restriction (TFR) is in place over the fire area.
Kaibab National Forest information is available through the following sources:
- 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
Incident objectives are being met on the Castle Fire
The Castle Fire's acreage continues to hold at 16,538 for the fourth day in a row. Precipitation and increased humidity continue to affect fire behavior causing a temporary stall in the fire's growth. However warm, dry days are in the forecast and the fire is expected to regain momentum and continue its path through remaining unburned fuels in the area of Lookout Canyon.
Soon after the Castle Fire started on July 12th, fire managers pre-identified the 19,632-acre planning area where the lightning-caused wildfire would be allowed to fulfill its natural role within a fire-dependent ecosystem. The fire has burned through 84% of the planning area, burning through a significant amount of dead and down trees and some mixed conifer species. By allowing the wildfire to naturally burn through this area, the ecosystem will become healthier and more resilient.
Firefighting resources assigned to this incident fluctuate, based on the level of fire activity. The transitions continue to be fluid and right-sized daily to meet the overall objectives of the Castle Fire. The Incident Objectives are stated in the daily Incident Action Plan that outlines the overarching goals for the Castle Fire. Constantly adhering to these objectives will ensure that each and every person assigned to the incident will work towards achieving a safe and successful mission.
The Castle Fire Incident Objectives are:
- Utilize deliberate risk management process to ensure that incident responders are only committed where, and when they can be successful, with the least exposure necessary.
- Allow fire to function as a natural disturbance process within the ecosystem to reduce accumulations of forest fuels that may exist in the area.
- Limit fire intensity to prevent adverse impacts to cultural and natural resources.
- Hold fire within the planning area.
A Closure Order remains in effect for the Castle Fire area: https://inciweb.nwcg.gov/incident/6439/
CASTLE FIRE OVERVIEW
- Discovery Date: July 12, 2019.
- Cause: Lightning.
- Location (point of origin): Approximately 11 miles south of Jacob Lake, 3 miles west of Highway 67, and just east of Forest Road 761 near Oquer Canyon on the North Kaibab Ranger District of the Kaibab National Forest.
- Current Resources: One crew, four engines, a helicopter, a dozer, four masticators, two feller bunchers, one skidder, and miscellaneous fire management personnel. Total personnel: approximately 91.
- Current Size: About 16,538 acres and it has spread across about 84% of the 19,632-acre planning area.
- Predicted Smoke Impacts: Smoke is expected to be visible from both the north and south rims of Grand Canyon National Park, Jacob Lake, Highway 67, Highway 89A, and Fredonia.
- Current Closures: Kaibab National Forest managers have implemented a temporary Closure Order for the Castle Fire area in order to provide for public and firefighter safety. For specific information about the Closure Order, please visit: https://inciweb.nwcg.gov/incident/6439/
- Recent and Current Operations: Wildland fire crews plan to continue improving roads and other designated perimeters within which the fire can move. Current weather conditions may influence the use of firing operations which may be conducted as needed in order to strengthen control lines. A Temporary Flight Restriction (TFR) is in place over the fire area.
Kaibab National Forest information is available through the following sources:
- 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
Ikes Fire remains active despite regular rain showers
Please visit https://www.nps.gov/grca/learn/management/firemanagement.htm foradditional information about wildland fire at Grand Canyon National Park or call 928-638-7819 for recorded fire information. For additional information about the Ikes fire, visit https://inciweb.nwcg.gov/incident/6475/. For fire information on the Kaibab National Forest, visit www.fs.usda.gov/kaibab or @KaibabNF on Facebook and Twitter or call (928) 635-8311 for recorded fire information.
New lightning caused fire on Williams Ranger District
A new lightning caused wildfire discovered on the Williams Ranger District of the Kaibab National Forest has grown to just over two acres. Located about 9 miles north of Parks at the northwest corner of Spring Valley, the “Boulin Fire” was detected by a local resident on Tuesday morning August 6.
Firefighters have been on scene since the initial response on Tuesday and will continue to monitor this fire daily. Due to the location, this fire is being assessed for the potential benefits of reducing hazardous fuel accumulations, increasing protection of local private inholdings, and restoring forest health. The overall strategy will be to contain the fire within a road system and various control features.
The Boulin Fire is burning in a ponderosa pine fuel type with continuous grasses. The goal is to allow the fire to burn as it would naturally as long as it can be safely managed while meeting objectives. Growth potential may Increase at times as weather conditions become warmer and drier over the next several days.
Smoke from the Boulin Fire is already noticeable from residential areas and will likely continue to be visible in the days ahead from surrounding communities that include Spring Valley, Parks, Red Lakes, and Pumpkin Center. Fire managers will monitor smoke closely and make every effort to minimize the impacts to residents in the vicinity.
Additional information about the Boulin Fire, and the Kaibab National Forest can be obtained through the following sources:
· InciWeb inciweb.nwcg.gov/incident/6511/
· Twitter: www.twitter.com/KaibabNF
· Kaibab Facebook: www.facebook.com/KaibabNF
· Kaibab website “Recent News”: www.fs.usda.gov/kaibab
· Fire Information Recorded Phone line: 928-635-8311
Verde Fire final update: firefighters improve fireline, containment increases
The Verde Fire remains at 2,735 acres, with minimal fire activity. Firefighters were able to secure additional fireline, increasing containment to 76%, with full containment expected by Friday evening. Firefighters will continue to patrol and secure the fire perimeter. Pockets of isolated smoke and ash whirls may be seen if thunderstorms develop during the heat of the day. The Tonto National Forest thanks the Central West Zone Type 3 Incident Management Team for all of their hard work protecting the communities of Rio Verde, Vista Verde and Fort McDowell.
Weather: Weather reports call for a chance of thunderstorms over the mountains in the afternoon on Friday and Saturday, decreasing into next week.
Closures and Fire Restrictions: The temporary Verde Fire area closure will be lifted at 7:00 am, Saturday, August 10, 2019. Because the Tonto National Forest hasn’t received wide-spread rain across the Forest, elevated Stage 1 Fire Restrictions remain in effect. Details can be found at: https://www.fs.usda.gov/alerts/tonto/alerts-notices/?aid=52969
Castle Fire firefighting organization scales back
The Castle Fire's acreage continues to hold at 16,538 for the third day in a row. Precipitation and increased humidity have affected fire behavior causing a temporary stall in the fire's growth. With warm, dry days in the forecast, the fire may regain momentum and continue its path through remaining unburned fuels in the area of Lookout Canyon.
Over the past 28 days, since the fire started on July 12th, the number and type of firefighting resources assigned to the Type 3 Incident Management organization have increased or lessened, based on the level of fire activity. The transitions have been fluid and right-sized to meet daily and ultimately, the overall objectives of the Castle Fire.
The objectives are clearly stated in the daily Incident Action Plan that outlines the specific goals for each day's work. Objectives for the Castle Fire are:
- Utilize deliberate risk management process to ensure that incident responders are only committed where, and when they can be successful, with the least exposure necessary.
- Allow fire to function as a natural disturbance process within the ecosystem to reduce accumulations of forest fuels that may exist in the area.
- Limit fire intensity to prevent adverse impacts to cultural and natural resources.
- Hold fire within the planning area.
With no new growth over the past few days, firefighters remain focused on fire-related work within the 19,632-acre planning area. The work includes mastication in Lookout Canyon, firing operations, aerial ignitions and pile burning of interior unburned fuels, fence and suppression repair, and clean up.
The Castle Fire poses no danger to structures or other local infrastructure.
A Closure Order remains in effect for the Castle Fire area: https://inciweb.nwcg.gov/incident/6439/
CASTLE FIRE OVERVIEW
- Discovery Date: July 12, 2019.
- Cause: Lightning.
- Location (point of origin): Approximately 11 miles south of Jacob Lake, 3 miles west of Highway 67, and just east of Forest Road 761 near Oquer Canyon on the North Kaibab Ranger District of the Kaibab National Forest.
- Current Resources: One crew, four engines, a helicopter, a dozer, four masticators, two feller bunchers, one skidder, and miscellaneous fire management personnel. Total personnel: approximately 96.
- Current Size: About 16,538 acres and it has spread across about 84% of the 19,632-acre planning area.
- Predicted Smoke Impacts: Smoke is expected to be visible from both the north and south rims of Grand Canyon National Park, Jacob Lake, Highway 67, Highway 89A, and Fredonia.
- Current Closures: Kaibab National Forest managers have implemented a temporary Closure Order for the Castle Fire area in order to provide for public and firefighter safety. For specific information about the Closure Order, please visit: https://inciweb.nwcg.gov/incident/6439/
- Recent and Current Operations:Wildland fire crews plan to continue improving roads and other designated perimeters within which the fire can move. Current weather conditions may influence the use of firing operations which may be conducted as needed in order to strengthen control lines. A Temporary Flight Restriction (TFR) is in place over the fire area.
Kaibab National Forest information is available through the following sources:
- 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
Verde Fire personnel continue efforts to contain fire
Summary: The Verde Fire remains at 2,735 acres at the end of Wednesday, with minimal fire activity. Firefighters spent Wednesday securing the south and southwest corner, and will continue this work today. Containment is now at 69%, and work will continue to make sure the fire’s edge is secure. Interior pockets of fuel may produce smoke that is visible throughout the day and into the evening hours. Community members may notice ash being blown around within the burned area, which resembles smoke. This occurs due to high winds from heat on the desert floor. This type of disturbance may continue to occur until a significant amount of moisture is received and ash settles. The Central West Zone Type 3 Incident Management Team will transition command of the Verde Fire back to the Forest Thursday morning.
Weather: Weather reports continue to call for a decreased chance of thunderstorm activity over the next few days, however a 10% chance of isolated thunderstorms over the mountains are still possible in the afternoons.
Closures: Tonto National Forest has implemented a closure for the area surrounding the Verde Fire, which includes the following roads: Lower Sycamore, FR 403, Sugarloaf, FR 402, and Mesquite Wash, FR160, on the west side of the fire, and Log Corral, FR 3456, and Box Bar, FR106, on the east side of the fire. These closures allow for visitor health and safety while firefighters work in the area. Additional information can be found at: https://tinyurl.com/y5kvhzcz.
Fire Restrictions: The Tonto National Forest remains in elevated Stage 1 Fire Restrictions because wetting rains have not been widespread across the Forest. Additional information can be found at: https://www.fs.usda.gov/alerts/tonto/alerts-notices/?aid=52969
Size: 2,735 acres
Percent Contained: 69%
Personnel: 104
Cause: Lightning
Website: https://inciweb.nwcg.gov/incident/6506/
Facebook: facebook.com/TontoNationalForest/
Twitter: @TontoForest
Fire Information Line: 480-595-3380 8 a.m. – 6 p.m
Kaibab National Forest institutes temporary area closure for the Ikes Fire
The Kaibab National Forest instituted a Temporary Area Closure for all National Forests System lands and roads within the Ikes Fire Planning Area. This Order will be in effect beginning at 8:00 AM on August 8 and shall remain in effect until September 27, 2019, or until rescinded, whichever comes first.
The Grand Canyon National Park Closure Order remains in place. The following areas are closed on the North Rim of the Grand Canyon:
- Powell Plateau Trail; North Bass Trail; Fire Point; Swamp Point; W4 road starting at the intersection of W4 and W1, heading north.
The purpose of the closure orders are to provide for the safety of the public and for firefighters conducting operations in the restricted area. The Official Closure Orders for the Kaibab National Forest and Grand Canyon National Park can be viewed at https://inciweb.nwcg.gov/incident/closures/6475/.
Despite monsoonal rains over the fire area, the fire has increased to 79 acres. The precipitation received has caused a decrease in fire activity for fine fuels, such as grass or dead needles on the forest floor. Heavy fuels, such as logs, continue to see mild to moderate fire activity.
The Ikes Fire and surrounding area is forecasted to receive monsoonal moisture with chances of afternoon and evening thunderstorms. A low pressure system off the coast should bring warmer, drier air to the area starting Friday. This warming trend may cause an increase in fire activity.
Fire crews are working to improve control lines along the W4 and 223 roads. Approximately 50 personnel are assigned to the Ikes Fire. As objectives are met over the next few days, the number of needed resources will be right sized, with extra resources being released and made available to assist on other wildfires. Crews will continue to monitor the fire to ensure it remains within the planning area.
The Ikes Fire poses no danger to structures or local infrastructure.
Please visit https://www.nps.gov/grca/learn/management/firemanagement.htm for additional information about wildland fire at Grand Canyon National Park or call 928-638-7819 for recorded fire information. For additional information about the Ikes fire, visit https://inciweb.nwcg.gov/incident/6475/.
Amidst rainshowers work continues on Castle Fire
The Castle Fire's acreage held at 16,538 today due to more consistent showers over the fire area. While precipitation does have a direct effect on fire behavior, it can be very effective in moderating or temporarily halting the fire's spread. However, this doesn't necessarily mean that the fire is over. Warmer, drier days, such as those predicted in the long-term forecast can provide just enough heat to keep the fire moving through the fuels that are still available in the unburned areas.
Over the past 27 days, since the fire started on July 12th, firefighters have continually worked on securing the 28-mile perimeter of the planning area. They had to assess and prioritize their day's work based on the expected fire activity and potential rate of spread.
Staying ahead of the fire has been critical to the success of keeping it within the planning area. During the recent intermittent rainshowers, firefighters continue to stay busy working on suppression repair work in and around the planning area. Mastication work is also ongoing along Forest Road 226, which defines the westernmost boundary of the planning area. Constant monitoring and patrolling of the fireline is essential in ensuring that it is secure and that the fire has no opportunity to breach the line.
Today's weather forecast: Partly cloudy with a light chance of thunderstorms in the morning followed by an increasing chance of thunderstorms in the afternoon.
The fire's origin is located about 11 miles south of Jacob Lake, 3 miles west of Highway 67, and just east of Forest Road 761 near Oquer Canyon.
The Castle Fire poses no danger to structures or other local infrastructure.
A Closure Order remains in effect for the Castle Fire area: https://inciweb.nwcg.gov/incident/6439/
CASTLE FIRE OVERVIEW
- Discovery Date: July 12, 2019.
- Cause: Lightning.
- Location (point of origin): Approximately 11 miles south of Jacob Lake, 3 miles west of Highway 67, and just east of Forest Road 761 near Oquer Canyon on the North Kaibab Ranger District of the Kaibab National Forest.
- Current Resources: Two crews, five engines, a helicopter, a dozer, three masticators, two feller bunchers, one skidder, and miscellaneous fire management personnel. Total personnel: approximately 114.
- Current Size: About 16,538 acres and it has spread across about 84% of the 19,632-acre planning area.
- Predicted Smoke Impacts: Smoke is expected to be visible from both the north and south rims of Grand Canyon National Park, Jacob Lake, Highway 67, Highway 89A, and Fredonia.
- Current Closures: Kaibab National Forest managers have implemented a temporary Closure Order for the Castle Fire area in order to provide for public and firefighter safety. For specific information about the Closure Order, please visit: https://inciweb.nwcg.gov/incident/6439/
- Recent and Current Operations: Wildland fire crews plan to continue improving roads and other designated perimeters within which the fire can move. Current weather conditions may influence the use of firing operations which may be conducted as needed in order to strengthen control lines. A Temporary Flight Restriction (TFR) is in place over the fire area.
Kaibab National Forest information is available through the following sources:
- 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
Verde firefighters being shuttled into fire area
Summary: The Verde Fire remained at approximately 2,730 acres at the end of Tuesday, with minimal fire activity along the fire’s edge, because of cooler morning temperatures and overcast skies. Crews will be shuttled into the fire today to begin building fireline and cold trail the southern edge of the trail. Cold trail means securing the fire edge. Smoke has decreased, but may continue to be visible throughout the day and into the evening hours. The following resources are on the fire: Geronimo Hotshots, Pima Type 2 Initial Attack Crew, three engines and one helicopter.
Weather: Weather reports are calling for a decreased chance of thunderstorm activity over the next few days, however a 10% chance of isolated thunderstorms over the mountains are still possible in the afternoon.
Closures: The following roads on the west side of the fire remain closed: Lower Sycamore, FR 403, Sugarloaf, FR 402, and Mesquite Wash, FR160. On the east side of the fire Log Corral, FR 3456, and Box Bar, FR106, have been closed to the public. These closures allow firefighters and equipment to safely work in the fire area.
Fire Restrictions: The Tonto National Forest remains in elevated Stage 1 Fire Restrictions because wetting rains have not been widespread across the Forest. Additional information can be found at: https://www.fs.usda.gov/alerts/tonto/alerts-notices/?aid=52969
Size: 2,730 acres
Percent Contained: 0%
Personnel: 87
Cause: Lightning
Website: https://inciweb.nwcg.gov/incident/6506/
Facebook: facebook.com/TontoNationalForest/
Twitter: @TontoForest
Fire Information Line: 480-595-3371 8 a.m. – 6 p.m
Ikes Fire promotes healthy forest regeneration as fire activity increases
The Ikes Fire moved into the northeast portion of the planning area that has a history of little to no fire activity in over two decades. This wildfire is consuming heavy fuel accumulations on the forest floor and is helping ensure the ecosystem will be healthier and more resilient in the future.
The lightning-caused fire is being allowed to fulfill its natural role in a fire-dependent ecosystem within a defined planning area of 8,000 acres on the Kaibab Plateau. The fire is being utilized to achieve a variety of resource objectives including reducing hazardous fuels, promoting forest regeneration, improving wildlife habitat, and restoring more open forest understory with grasses and forbs. The fire is approximately 77 acres.
Grand Canyon National Park has temporarily instituted closures for the portion of the Ikes
Fire Planning Area that is within Grand Canyon National Park. These closures were put in place during the early planning phases in order to provide a safe environment for both the public and firefighters working in the area. The following areas are closed on the North Rim of the Grand Canyon:
- Powell Plateau Trail; North Bass Trail; Fire Point; Swamp Point; W4 road starting at the intersection of W4 and W1, heading north.
This closure will remain in effect until further notice. Other roads and trails in the planning
area may be temporarily closed to allow firefighters to conduct operations.
Grand Canyon National Park is receiving interagency support from three Type Two Initial Attack Handcrews and local resources from the Kaibab National Forest and Grand Canyon National Park. Other resources assigned to the fire include four engines, one medic team, one ambulance, one water tender, safety officer, and fire effects monitors. Approximately 100 personnel are assigned to the Ikes Fire.
The Ikes Fire poses no danger to structures or local infrastructure.
Please visit https://www.nps.gov/grca/learn/management/firemanagement.htm for
additional information about wildland fire at Grand Canyon National Park or call 928-638-7819
for recorded fire information. For additional information about the Ikes fire, visit
Health Watch Issued for ozone effective August 7 & 8 in the Tucson area
The Arizona Department of Environmental Quality (ADEQ) and Pima County of Environmental Quality are issuing a Health Watch (HW) for ozone effective August 7 and 8 in the Tucson 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.
Check the Hourly Air Quality Forecast | View >
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 Air Quality Hourly Forecast | View >
- Text or Email Alerts | Subscribe >
- Air Arizona Mobile App | Learn More >
- Apple iTunes >
- Google Play >
Persistence results in additional growth on the Castle Fire
The Castle Fire continues its gradual spread westward towards Lookout Canyon. Low to moderate fire behavior along almost four miles of the fire's active front has resulted in an additional 1,538 acres. To date, the fire has covered 16,538 acres within the pre-identified planning area of 19,632 acres. This fire's persistence can be attributed to favorable conditions including intermittent spells of dry weather over the western edge of the planning area, available fuels and the area's unique topography, all being key factors that have contributed to the fire's spread.
Anticipating that this would be considered a long-term event, fire managers allowed this naturally ignited, lightning-caused fire to burn across the landscape from the time it was detected on July 12th to present. The Castle Fire was different than most by burning at a lower intensity, over an extended period of time to prepare the forest floor for regeneration and renewal.
Firefighters will continue mastication work along the western and southern perimeters to ensure that they are secure enough to hold the fire within the planning area. The biggest challenge along Forest Road 226, which is also the western perimeter of the planning area, has been the powerline that exists along this corridor. Extensive and advanced preparation along almost ten miles of Forest Road 226 will ensure that any potential for increased fire behavior has been mitigated. This work, coupled with the fire's positive effects on the land, will result in long lasting improvements, both ecologically and to existing infrastructure.
Today's weather forecast: Mostly cloudy then becoming partly cloudy. Slight chance of showers and thunderstorms. Light winds with gusts to 16 mph in the afternoon. Erratic winds near thunderstorms.
The fire's origin is located about 11 miles south of Jacob Lake, 3 miles west of Highway 67, and just east of Forest Road 761 near Oquer Canyon.
A Closure Order remains in effect for the Castle Fire area: https://inciweb.nwcg.gov/incident/6439/
CASTLE FIRE OVERVIEW
- Discovery Date: July 12, 2019.
- Cause: Lightning.
- Location (point of origin): Approximately 11 miles south of Jacob Lake, 3 miles west of Highway 67, and just east of Forest Road 761 near Oquer Canyon on the North Kaibab Ranger District of the Kaibab National Forest.
- Current Resources: Two crews, four engines, a helicopter, a dozer, three masticators, two feller bunchers, one skidder, and miscellaneous fire management personnel. Total personnel: approximately 119.
- Current Size: About 16,538 acres and it has spread across about 84% of the 19,632-acre planning area.
- Predicted Smoke Impacts: Smoke is expected to be visible from both the north and south rims of Grand Canyon National Park, Jacob Lake, Highway 67, Highway 89A, and Fredonia.
- Current Closures: Kaibab National Forest managers have implemented a temporary Closure Order for the Castle Fire area in order to provide for public and firefighter safety. For specific information about the Closure Order, please visit: https://inciweb.nwcg.gov/incident/6439/
- Recent and Current Operations: Wildland fire crews plan to continue improving roads and other designated perimeters within which the fire can move. Current weather conditions may influence the use of firing operations which may be conducted as needed in order to strengthen control lines. A Temporary Flight Restriction (TFR) is in place over the fire area.
Kaibab National Forest information is available through the following sources:
- 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
Overcast skies and cooler temperatures lessen activity of Verde Fire
- Approximately 1⁄2 mile east of Fort McDowell Reservation
- Approximately three northeast of Rio Verde
- 15 miles northeast of Scottsdale
- Nearest town is Cave Creek
Museum Fire closure area reduced
The Coconino National Forest is reducing the size of the closure for the Museum Fire today to allow for increased access and recreation on parts of Mount Elden.
With the initial assessment from the Burned Area Emergency Response (BAER) team completed on this fire, the Flagstaff Ranger District has determined it is safe to reduce the size of the closure to allow more recreating around Mount Elden.
Popular hiking and biking routes that are now fully or partially open include trails such as Schultz Creek, Fatman's Loop, Elden Lookout, Little Elden, Pipeline, Sandy Seep, Christmas Tree, and Heart. However, members of the public should read the entire closure order for details of where some of these trails enter the new closure area.
The Museum Fire closure was first implemented July 23 and then revised to a smaller area on July 29 as the dangers from the fire lessened. A closure is still needed to keep visitors safe during the upcoming helicopter mulching in the high-severity burn areas and to protect other impacted resources. This closure is very similar to the closure implemented for the timber reduction in the Flagstaff Watershed Protection Project earlier this year.
The closure will be modified again after the mulching is complete approximately two months from now. BAER efforts to restore the Museum Fire area will be updated on Inciweb at https://inciweb.nwcg.gov/incident/6482/.
High Pollution Advisory issued for ozone effective August 7 in the Phoenix area
The Arizona Department of Environmental Quality (ADEQ) is issuing a High Pollution Advisory (HPA) for ozone effective August 7 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 | View >
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 >
Clean Air, Make More Mobile App
Ikes Fire grows to 58 acres despite Monsoon weather
The Ikes Fire continues to grow despite the minimal amount of moisture received from recent storms. The fire is approximately 58 acres.
Over the past two decades, there has been minimal to no fire activity in the northeast section of the current planning area. The lack of fire activity has lead to build up of vegetation which creates a higher fuel load for future fires moving through the area. Yesterday the fire moved into this area and fire managers anticipate fire activity will increase depending on the amount of precipitation = received.
Crews may begin firing operations in the upcoming days. Crews will introduce fire along the planning area perimeter to secure control lines using low intensity heat. This fire activity may produce smoke visible on both the North Rim and South Rim.
Grand Canyon National Park has temporarily instituted closures for the portion of the Ikes Fire Planning Area that is within Grand Canyon National Park. The following areas are closed:
- The Powell Plateau Trail on the North Rim of Grand Canyon.
- The North Bass Trail on the North Rim of Grand Canyon.
- Fire Point on the North Rim of Grand Canyon.
- Swamp Point on the North Rim of Grand Canyon.
- The W4 road north of Kanabownits Lookout on the North Rim of Grand Canyon.
This closure will remain in effect until further notice. Other roads and trails in the planning area may be temporarily closed due to hazards and fire personnel working in the area.
Monsoon moisture is forecasted for the next several days. This is expected to bring isolated thunderstorms over the fire area and potentially impact the fire's growth.
Grand Canyon National Park is receiving interagency support from two Type Two Initial Attack handcrews and local resources from the Kaibab National Forest and the Grand Canyon National
Park. Other resources assigned to the fire are five engines, a medic team, a water tender, safety officer, and fire effects monitors. Approximately 77 personnel are assigned to the Ikes Fire.
The Ikes Fire poses no danger to structures or local infrastructure.
Please visit https://www.nps.gov/grca/learn/management/firemanagement.htm for additional information about wildland fire at Grand Canyon National Park or call 928-638-7819 for recorded fire information. For additional information about the Ikes fire, visit https://inciweb.nwcg.gov/incident/6475/.
