Arizona Emergency Information Network

Weather: Slight chance of an early evening thunderstorm and light showers over the fire area overnight. Temperatures will be 59 to 66 at upper elevation and 73 to 76 on the valley floor. South to southeast winds 5-15 mph.

Today’s Activity: Conditions were favorable for fireline construction today. Structure protection and patrol continued in the Summerhaven and Willow Canyon areas. Crews constructed primary and secondary containment lines around the spot fire near Radio Ridge. Helicopters dropped retardant to keep the fire from backing down Green Mountain. Work continued along and to the west of Redington Road. Helicopters performed bucket drops and ground crews constructed fireline and mopped up near Beuhman Canyon and also worked in areas around ranch houses and structures. Water and retardant drops were used to support hotshot crews in securing and mopping up the fireline west of Redington Road about one mile north of Trail Tank Road. Mop up continued on the 50 acre spot fire off Redington Road. Crews monitored Sabino and other canyons on the south side of the fire.

Tonight’s Activity: Firefighters will continue structure protection between Summerhaven and Willow Canyon and work to complete containment on the 3-acre spot fire near Radio Ridge. Crews will monitor the fire backing down Green Mountain and along the Catalina Highway. Firefighters will hold and mop up the area where the spot fire crossed Redington Road. Mop up will continue along the Piety Hill Road (#649) in the Beuhman Canyon area. Along the southeast side of the fire, crews will mop up and patrol the fireline that was constructed today. The remaining fire perimeter will primarily be in patrol status overnight. Initial attack resources will be available for any new fire starts in the area due to a slight chance of thunderstorms. Crews will monitor Sabino Canyon.

The next virtual public meeting will be on Friday, July 3 at 8 PM

PIMA:  

• Evacuation status: Pima.gov/bighorn
• Evacuation alert sign up:myalerts.pima.gov

COCHISE:

• Evacuation status: cochise.az.gov/emergency
• Evacuation alert sign up:cochise.az.gov/emergency

PINAL:

• Evacuation status: www.pinal.gov
• Evacuation alert sign up:pinalcountyaz.gov/emergencymanagement

A temporary flight restriction is in place over the fire area. If you fly, we can’t knowbeforeyoufly.org.

Closures: Sabino Canyon, Bear Canyon, and Catalina State Park are closed. Cascabel Road at the Cochise County/Pima County line is closed. Catalina Highway is closed to the public at milepost zero. Closures and maps at inciweb.nwcg.gov/incident/closures/6741/.

Forest conditions: https://www.fs.usda.gov/alerts/coronado/alerts-notices

Fire Details:
Location:  Santa Catalina Mountains
Size: 118,370 acres
Containment: 58%
Injuries: 7 minor
Date detected: June 5, 2020
Cause: Lightning
Estimated cost: $37.0 MM
Hand Crews: 17
Dozers: 6
Engines: 68
Water-tenders: 19
Helicopters: 10
Personnel: 884

Information resources
Bighorn Fire Info: (520) 329-7439 & (520) 276-8981, 8AM-8PM 
Media Phone Line: (520) 329-7640, 8AM-8PM 
Website: https://inciweb.nwcg.gov/incident/6741/ 
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/bighornfireinfo
Smoke: https://wildlandfiresmoke.net/outlooks/EasternArizona
Burned Area Response: https://inciweb.nwcg.gov/incident/6796/ 
NWS Burn Scar https://www.weather.gov/twc/bighorn-burn-scar

The Forest Service (USFS) Burned Area Emergency Response (BAER)assessment team coordinated early with US Geological Survey (USGS) staff during its evaluation of the Bighorn Fire burned area to strategically assess potential post-fire impacts to the watersheds and predicted debris flow response during damaging storm events. From the USGS website found at https://landslides.usgs.gov/hazards/postfire_debrisflow/.

“Wildfire can significantly alter the hydrologic response of a watershed to the extent that even modest rainstorms can produce dangerous flash floods and debris flows. The USGS conducts post-fire debris-flow hazard assessments for select fires in the Western U.S.  We use geospatial data related to basin morphometry, burn severity, soil properties, and rainfall characteristics to estimate the probability and volume of debris flows that may occur in response to a design storm.”

USGS used the BAER team’s runoff potential analysis of the area burned by the Bighorn Fire to estimate post-fire debris-flow hazards, including the likelihood, potential magnitude, and rainfall threshold.  The USGS Bighorn Post-Fire Debris Flow Hazard Assessment estimates convey these hazards for the Bighorn burn area as of the morning of June 28, 2020.  Results will be updated as the fire expands, new satellite imagery is acquired, and the BAER team updates their runoff potential map.  

The interactive map on the USGS website shows the likelihood, potential magnitude, and combined hazard of debris flows that may occur from about a 1/4 inch of rainfall over a 15-minute period.  Results from more intense rain events, ranging from about 1/2 inch per hour to 2 inches per hour, are also available as downloadable data from the USGS website.  The online interactive map is posted at: https://landslides.usgs.gov/hazards/postfire_debrisflow/detail.php?objectid=281.

USGS Fact Sheet 176-97, entitled “Debris Flow Hazards in the United States” contains information used to interpret the debris flow map and analysis that was incorporated into the BAER assessment team’s anticipated soil erosion and hydrologic response findings.  According to the USGS, “Analysis of data collected from studies of debris flows following wildfires can answer many of the questions fundamental to post-fire hazard assessments— what and why, where, when, how big, and how often?”  This information is extremely important in assisting the public in increasing their awareness of the areas where there may be a higher increase in flooding, sediment and soil erosion, and a high probability of debris flows –- all of which are potential risks to human life, safety, and property.

SPECIAL NOTE: Everyone near and downstream from the burned areas should remain alert and stay updated on weather conditions that may result in heavy rains over the burn scars. Flash flooding may occur quickly during heavy rain events-be prepared to take action. Current weather and emergency notifications can be found at the National Weather Service website: www.weather.gov/twc/.

Bighorn Post-Fire BAER Assessment information is available at: https://inciweb.nwcg.gov/incident/6796/

Burned Area Emergency Response (BAER) assessment team released a map showing the runoff potential for areas burned by the Bighorn Fire. BAER specialists were able to use existing data and data from pre-fire and post-fire satellite remote sensing imagery from the Bighorn Fire burned area. The runoff map shows the levels of hydrological potential flows during rain events. 

The Forest Service BAER assessment team uses this map and data to identify if there are areas of concern on National Forest System lands where increased soil erosion, accelerated surface water run-off, and debris flows have the potential to impact human life/safety, property, and critical natural and cultural resources from storm events. BAER shares this data with interagency cooperators who work with downstream private home and land owners to prepare for potential post-fire flooding and debris flow impacts.

BAER Team Leader Greg Kuyumjian said, “The BAER team expects erosion and run-off within the Bighorn Fire area to increase as a result of the fire because a majority of the burned area has been rated as having a high potential for increased runoff. Steep hillslopes affected by the fire that have been rated as having a high runoff potential could experience increased post-fire soil erosion and debris flows.” 

The Bighorn Fire runoff potential BAER map can be downloaded at the 2020 Coronado BAER InciWeb site (https://inciweb.nwcg.gov/incident/6796) as a JPEG or PDF version under the “maps” tab. 

SPECIAL NOTE: Everyone near and downstream from the burned areas should remain alert and stay updated on weather conditions that may result in heavy rains over the burn scars. Flash flooding may occur quickly during heavy rain events-be prepared to take action. Current weather and emergency notifications can be found at the National Weather Service website: www.weather.gov/twc/. 

Bighorn Post-Fire BAER Assessment information is available at: https://inciweb.nwcg.gov/incident/6796/

El Bosque Nacional Coronado se ha unido a una coalición de municipios, agencias federales y organizaciones locales a través del sur de Arizona urgiendo al público que disfrute de parques y bosques públicos este próximo fin de semana del 4 de julio y que recuerde recrearse de manera responsable. Una temporada muy activa de incendios forestales y la pandemia COVID-19 se han combinado para crear una situación sin precedentes que requiere que los que aman las actividades al aire libre planean con anticipación y sean responsables.

Los funcionarios del Departamento de Parques y Recreación de Tucson, la ciudad de Marana, el Departamento de Parques y Recreación de Oro Valley, el Bosque Nacional Coronado, el Parque Nacional Saguaro, el Condado de Pima y Visit Tucson se han unido a organizaciones al aire libre como Arizona Trail Association, Friends Of Saguaro National Park, The Wilderness Society, Western National Parks Association, Ironwood Tree Experience y Sonoran Desert Mountain Bicyclists y otros para resaltar la importancia de las áreas naturales y el disfrutar el aire libre este verano.

Las áreas de recreación supervisadas por agencias locales y nacionales están contendiendo con un uso nunca antes visto a medida que las personas buscan actividades seguras y saludables consistentes con las recomendaciones de los funcionarios de salud. Se reconoce que salir al aire libre es excelente para la salud física y mental, y aun así muchas áreas públicas han visto un aumento en el arrojo de la basura en la vía pública y otros malos comportamientos. "Ya estábamos viendo un uso más alto de lo normal esta primavera y verano," dijo Kerwin Dewberry, Supervisor del Bosque Nacional de Coronado, "Con tanta gente recreando debemos enfatizar que estamos en plena restricción de incendios." Esto significa que no hay fogatas, ni parrillas de carbón, ni disparos, y se aplican restricciones de fumar también. Los fuegos artificiales siempre están prohibidos en el bosque. Cuidemos bien estos lugares que son tan importantes para todos".

"Pasar tiempo al aire libre ha sido importante para muchos estadounidenses durante esta crisis de salud pública. Esta situación se ha complicado aún más a medida que se intensifica la temporada de incendios forestales en el sureste de Arizona. Tenemos la responsabilidad colectiva de cuidar estos lugares significantes igual que nuestras comunidades. Esto es especialmente importante para considerar este fin de semana del 4 de julio debido a los fuegos artificiales," dijo Leah McGinnis, Superintendente del Parque Nacional Saguaro. Las restricciones contra incendios en muchos de estos espacios al aire libre están actualmente vigentes y estas restricciones incluyen fogatas y fuegos artificiales.

Juntos, la coalición urge los siguientes pasos:

Antes de salir en su excursión

Infórmese antes de ir: verifique el estado del lugar que desea visitar. Si está cerrado, no se vaya a ese lugar. El incendio de Bighorn y otros incidentes han afectado el acceso a áreas populares. Verifique para determinar si existen restricciones adicionales. Tenga en cuenta ubicaciones alternativas en caso de que su primer destino esté superpoblado.
Planifique con anticipación: prepárese para que se cierren algunos centros de visitantes y baños públicos, y traiga elementos esenciales como agua de beber, protección contra el sol, desinfectante para manos y una máscara facial. Recuerde que muchas ciudades y condados en Arizona ahora tienen requisitos de máscara facial. Los requisitos típicos son que debe tener una máscara facial cuando salga de su casa, y debe usar una máscara en público, incluso en el exterior, cuando se encuentre a menos de seis pies de otra persona.
Manténgase cerca de casa: este no es el momento de viajar largas distancias para recrearse. Además, muchas comunidades pequeñas e indígenas han restringido la atención médica y las infraestructuras de primeros auxilios. Sea considerado con las personas que viven cerca de las áreas donde elige recrearse y por favor no imponga problemas adicionales a esas comunidades.

Una vez que estés afuera

Practique el distanciamiento físico: salga solo con la gente en su hogar. Esté preparado para cubrirse la nariz y la boca y dar espacio a otros. Si está enfermo, por favor quédese en casa.
Juegue lo seguro: siga todas las restricciones de incendios y las prohibiciones de fuegos artificiales. Disminuya la velocidad y elija actividades de menor riesgo para reducir el riesgo de lesiones. Si se queda más cerca de Tucson y disfruta de elevaciones más bajas, hágalo muy temprano en la mañana o después que baje el sol para limitar la exposición peligrosa al calor.
No deje rastro: tenemos que respetar las tierras públicas. Lleve toda su basura cuando se vaya, especialmente el papel higiénico.
El mensaje para la comunidad del sur de Arizona se basa en el trabajo de una coalición nacional que se ha unido para brindar consejos para recrear con responsabilidad.

Para mas información:  https://www.recreateresponsibly.org/.  La Oficina de Turismo de Arizona también mantiene enlaces a información actualizada sobre qué parques y áreas de recreación están disponibles: https://tourism.az.gov/responsible-recreation-across-arizona/

El Bosque Nacional Coronado se ha unido a una coalición de municipios, agencias federales y organizaciones locales a través del sur de Arizona urgiendo al público que disfrute de parques y bosques públicos este próximo fin de semana del 4 de julio y que recuerde recrearse de manera responsable. Una temporada muy activa de incendios forestales y la pandemia COVID-19 se han combinado para crear una situación sin precedentes que requiere que los que aman las actividades al aire libre planean con anticipación y sean responsables.

Los funcionarios del Departamento de Parques y Recreación de Tucson, la ciudad de Marana, el Departamento de Parques y Recreación de Oro Valley, el Bosque Nacional Coronado, el Parque Nacional Saguaro, el Condado de Pima y Visit Tucson se han unido a organizaciones al aire libre como Arizona Trail Association, Friends Of Saguaro National Park, The Wilderness Society, Western National Parks Association, Ironwood Tree Experience y Sonoran Desert Mountain Bicyclists y otros para resaltar la importancia de las áreas naturales y el disfrutar el aire libre este verano.

Las áreas de recreación supervisadas por agencias locales y nacionales están contendiendo con un uso nunca antes visto a medida que las personas buscan actividades seguras y saludables consistentes con las recomendaciones de los funcionarios de salud. Se reconoce que salir al aire libre es excelente para la salud física y mental, y aun así muchas áreas públicas han visto un aumento en el arrojo de la basura en la vía pública y otros malos comportamientos. "Ya estábamos viendo un uso más alto de lo normal esta primavera y verano," dijo Kerwin Dewberry, Supervisor del Bosque Nacional de Coronado, "Con tanta gente recreando debemos enfatizar que estamos en plena restricción de incendios." Esto significa que no hay fogatas, ni parrillas de carbón, ni disparos, y se aplican restricciones de fumar también. Los fuegos artificiales siempre están prohibidos en el bosque. Cuidemos bien estos lugares que son tan importantes para todos".

"Pasar tiempo al aire libre ha sido importante para muchos estadounidenses durante esta crisis de salud pública. Esta situación se ha complicado aún más a medida que se intensifica la temporada de incendios forestales en el sureste de Arizona. Tenemos la responsabilidad colectiva de cuidar estos lugares significantes igual que nuestras comunidades. Esto es especialmente importante para considerar este fin de semana del 4 de julio debido a los fuegos artificiales," dijo Leah McGinnis, Superintendente del Parque Nacional Saguaro. Las restricciones contra incendios en muchos de estos espacios al aire libre están actualmente vigentes y estas restricciones incluyen fogatas y fuegos artificiales.

Juntos, la coalición urge los siguientes pasos:

Antes de salir en su excursión

Infórmese antes de ir: verifique el estado del lugar que desea visitar. Si está cerrado, no se vaya a ese lugar. El incendio de Bighorn y otros incidentes han afectado el acceso a áreas populares. Verifique para determinar si existen restricciones adicionales. Tenga en cuenta ubicaciones alternativas en caso de que su primer destino esté superpoblado.
Planifique con anticipación: prepárese para que se cierren algunos centros de visitantes y baños públicos, y traiga elementos esenciales como agua de beber, protección contra el sol, desinfectante para manos y una máscara facial. Recuerde que muchas ciudades y condados en Arizona ahora tienen requisitos de máscara facial. Los requisitos típicos son que debe tener una máscara facial cuando salga de su casa, y debe usar una máscara en público, incluso en el exterior, cuando se encuentre a menos de seis pies de otra persona.
Manténgase cerca de casa: este no es el momento de viajar largas distancias para recrearse. Además, muchas comunidades pequeñas e indígenas han restringido la atención médica y las infraestructuras de primeros auxilios. Sea considerado con las personas que viven cerca de las áreas donde elige recrearse y por favor no imponga problemas adicionales a esas comunidades.

Una vez que estés afuera

Practique el distanciamiento físico: salga solo con la gente en su hogar. Esté preparado para cubrirse la nariz y la boca y dar espacio a otros. Si está enfermo, por favor quédese en casa.
Juegue lo seguro: siga todas las restricciones de incendios y las prohibiciones de fuegos artificiales. Disminuya la velocidad y elija actividades de menor riesgo para reducir el riesgo de lesiones. Si se queda más cerca de Tucson y disfruta de elevaciones más bajas, hágalo muy temprano en la mañana o después que baje el sol para limitar la exposición peligrosa al calor.
No deje rastro: tenemos que respetar las tierras públicas. Lleve toda su basura cuando se vaya, especialmente el papel higiénico.
El mensaje para la comunidad del sur de Arizona se basa en el trabajo de una coalición nacional que se ha unido para brindar consejos para recrear con responsabilidad.

Para mas información:  https://www.recreateresponsibly.org/.  La Oficina de Turismo de Arizona también mantiene enlaces a información actualizada sobre qué parques y áreas de recreación están disponibles: https://tourism.az.gov/responsible-recreation-across-arizona/

Coronado National Forest has joined a coalition of municipalities, federal agencies and outdoor organizations across Southern Arizona urging anyone enjoying public lands, forests, and parks this upcoming July 4th weekend to recreate responsibly. An active wildland fire season and the COVID-19 pandemic have combined to create an unprecedented situation that requires outdoor enthusiasts plan ahead and practice personal responsibility.

Officials from Tucson, Marana, Oro Valley, Coronado National Forest, Saguaro National Park, Bureau of Land Management, Pima County and Visit Tucson have joined with outdoor organizations including the Arizona Trail Association, The Wilderness Society, Western National Parks Association, and others to highlight the importance of mindfully enjoying the outdoors this summer.

Recreation areas overseen by local and national agencies are experiencing higher than normal use as people look for safe and healthy activities consistent with recommendations from health officials. While getting outdoors is great for physical and mental health, many areas have seen an increase in trash dumping and other damaging behavior.  “We were already seeing higher than normal use this spring and summer,” said Kerwin Dewberry, Coronado National Forest Supervisor, “With so many people out recreating we must emphasize that we are in full fire restrictions. This means no campfires, no charcoal grills, no shooting and, smoking restrictions apply. Fireworks are always prohibited on the Forest. Let’s take good care of these places that are so important to us.”

"Spending time outdoors has been important for many Americans during this public health crisis. This situation has been complicated further as the wildfire season in southeastern Arizona intensifies.  We have a collective responsibility to care for these special places and each other. This is especially important to consider on July 4th weekend because of fireworks," said Cam Juárez, Public Information Officer at Saguaro National Park. Fire restrictions in many of these outdoor spaces are currently in effect and these restrictions include open campfires and fireworks.

Together, the coalition urges the following steps:

Before You Head Out on Your Excursion:

Know Before You Go: Check the status of the place you want to visit. If it is closed, don’t go. The Bighorn Fire and other incidents have impacted access to popular areas. Check to determine whether additional restrictions are in place. Have alternate destinations mind in case your first destination is overcrowded.
Plan Ahead: Prepare for some visitor centers and restrooms to be closed, and bring essentials like extra water, sun protection, hand sanitizer, and a face covering. Remember that many cities and counties in Arizona now have face mask requirements. Typical requirements are that you must have a face mask with you when you leave your house, and you must wear a face mask in public, including in the outdoors, when you come within six feet of someone else.
Stay Close to Home: This is not the time to travel long distances to recreate. Further, many small and indigenous communities have constrained health care and first responder infrastructures. Be conscious and considerate of the people who live near the areas where you choose to recreate and do not place additional burdens on those communities. If you stay closer to Tucson and enjoy lower elevations, do so early in the morning or late in the evening to limit dangerous heat exposure.

Once You’re Outside:

Practice Physical Distancing: Adventure only with your immediate household. Be prepared to cover your nose and mouth and give others space. If you are sick, stay home.
Play It Safe: Follow all applicable fire restrictions and fireworks prohibitions. Slow down and choose lower-risk activities to reduce your risk of injury. 
Leave No Trace: Respect public lands and communities. Take all your garbage out with you, including toilet paper.
The message to the Southern Arizona community builds from the work of a national coalition that has come together to provide advice for recreating responsibility.  Learn more at  https://www.recreateresponsibly.org/.  The Arizona Office of Tourism is maintaining links to up-to-date information about which parks and recreation areas are available: https://tourism.az.gov/responsible-recreation-across-arizona/

The Bush Fire remains 98% contained. Interior burning activity and smoke may be present until the fire area receives widespread moisture from monsoons. The Arizona Central West Zone Type 3 Incident Management Team is working with the Tonto National Forest to transition management to the forest on July 2, 2020.

For your safety and ours, please drive with caution. Firefighters continue to work along Highway 87 and 188. Drivers should expect fire personnel and cooperators to be working on highway shoulders and should use extreme caution. Slow down and watch for firefighters working along the highways. Please not stop along the road in the fire area.

Emergency Stabilization-Burned Area Emergency Response (BAER) assessments are in progress. For more information, visit: https://inciweb.nwcg.gov/incident/6803/ The Tonto National Forest has an area closures surrounding the Bush and Central Fires. Fire restrictions remain in place. Details are available at https://www.fs.usda.gov/alerts/tonto/alerts-notices.

For your safety and ours, please drive with caution. Firefighters continue to work along Highway 87 and 188. Drivers should expect fire personnel and cooperators to be working on highway shoulders and should use extreme caution. Slow down and watch for firefighters working along the highways. Please not stop along the road in the fire area.

Road Status Information: https://az511.com/ or call 511 

Evacuation Status: READY – No active evacuations. Learn more about “Ready-Set-Go Arizona” and sign up for emergency notifications for your county: https://ein.az.gov/ready-set-go

Smoke Outlook: https://fires.airfire.org/outlooks/CentralArizona.
Wildfires are a No Drone Zone. If you fly, we can’t. Every time a drone is spotted near the fire all aircraft are grounded until we can be sure the drone is clear of this area. More info visit http://knowbeforeyoufly.org.

Fire Details:
Acres: 193,455 acres                                                             
Percent Containment: 98%
Start Date: Saturday, June 13, 2020                                                          
Cause: Human-caused
Origin Location: 22 miles NE of Mesa,AZ                                              
Fuels: Tall grass and brush
Resources: approx. 75 personnel

Information Resources:
Fire Information: 928-351-7596 (public)                                                
Inciweb: https://inciweb.nwcg.gov/incident/6773/                           
Facebook: Fb.com/bushfireinfo Email: [email protected]                          
Twitter:twitter.com/TontoForest

Winds subsided yesterday, and limited fire behavior resulted in no growth in acreage on the fire. However, helicopters made a few bucket drops on a flare up in the Burro Springs area.  Fire crews will continue to focus on suppression repair today.  Low humidity and extremely dry fuels present the potential for active fire behavior.  Interior creeping and torching remain in isolated areas of the fire, which are being monitored to prevent threats to containment lines.

Safety:  As the Fourth of July weekend approaches, tourist traffic is increasing.  Motorists should be alert for the presence of firefighting vehicles on local roads.

Closures: Forest Road 22 is closed between road 422 and road 429.  Highways 67 and 89A are open to public travel. The North Rim of Grand Canyon National Park is now open (see:  www.facebook.com/GrandCanyonNationalPark/).  The U.S. Forest Service and Bureau of Land Management have amended closure orders for the North Kaibab Ranger District and Bureau of Land Management land east of Fredonia. See: www.facebook.com/KaibabNF/ and      https://blm.gov/office/arizona-strip-field-office/.  

Restrictions: Kaibab National Forest has implemented Stage 2 Fire Restrictions. For a full list of restrictions, please visit https://www.fs.usda.gov/alerts/kaibab/alerts-notices/?aid=58061  

Evacuations: None.  The area along House Rock road remains under “ready” status.      For further information, please visit the following links:   Inciweb: https://inciweb.nwcg.gov   Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/KaibabNF/  Twitter: @KaibabNF  

 CDC Wildfire Smoke and COVID-19: https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/php/smoke-faq.html Wire Pass Fire Information: https://blm.gov/office/arizona-strip-field-office/  Phone # (435) 899-0415

A temporary flight restriction is in place over the fire area. Wildfires are No Drone Zones.  If you fly, we can’t.  

Fire Information:

• Location: origin 30 miles south of Fredonia 
• Start Date: June 6, 2020 
• Acres: 71,450 
• Cause: under investigation 
• Total Personnel: 365 
• Containment: 67% 
• Vegetation: Timber and piñon/juniper with grass/shrub understory 
• Resources: Three Type 1 20-person handcrews, four 20-person initial attack handcrews, 15 fire engines, 4 helicopters, 8 dozers, and 16 water tenders.

If you are planning to visit the Prescott NF over the July 4th weekend, please leave your fireworks at home.  Officials want to remind visitors that fireworks are always prohibited on national forest lands, regardless of weather or conditions.  We all have a responsibility to take precautions to prevent wildfires.         

REMINDER - Prescott National Forest is now in Stage II Fire Restrictions.    

Stage II fire restrictions prohibit the following:

1.     Igniting, building, maintaining, attending or using a fire, campfire, or stove fire.

2.     Smoking, except within an enclosed vehicle or building, a developed recreation site, or while stopped in an area at least three feet in diameter that is barren or cleared of any flammable material.

3.     Welding, or operating any acetylene or other torch with an open flame.

4.     Operating a chainsaw or other equipment operated by an internal combustion engine between the hours of 9 a.m. to 8 p.m.  

5.     Discharging a firearm, air rifle, or gas gun, except while engaged in a lawful hunt.

Exemptions to the restrictions include the following:

1.     Persons with a written Forest Service authorization specifically exempting them from the effect of this order.

2.     Persons using a stove or grill that is solely fueled by liquid petroleum or liquid petroleum gas (LPG) fuels.

3.     Persons operating 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

4.     Any Federal, State, or local officer, or member of an organized rescue or firefighting force in the performance of an official duty.

REMINDER - All overnight developed campgrounds are still closed.  However, trails and lakes are open; and dispersed camping is allowed in compliance with social distancing and limited group size. Please adhere to the Leave No Trace principles of outdoor ethics and refer to the Motor Vehicle Use Maps so you know which roads and trails are open to motor vehicle traffic.  Visitors to the Prescott National Forest should also follow Arizona's guidelines for responsible recreation across the state including staying home if sick and observing physical distancing of at least 6 feet from other people. For complete information, visit the Responsible Recreation Across Arizona website.

All Prescott NF offices will be closed on Friday, July 3rd, in observance of the Fourth of July Holiday. Forest offices will resume virtual business hours on Monday, July 6th. 

Visitors can obtain additional information by visiting the Prescott National Forest Website: http://www.fs.usda.gov/prescott/ or by following us on Facebook or Twitter. 

Steady monsoon showers will soon blanket the Bringham Fire burned area, potentially contributing to flash flooding along the Blue and San Francisco Rivers near Clifton, Arizona. “Monsoons are a double-edged sword in the Southwest, bringing much needed moisture, but also potentially deadly flash flooding along stream courses, especially within and below recently burned areas” explained USDA Forest Service Burned Area Emergency Response (BAER) Coordinator Paul Brown. A Forest Service BAER team is currently evaluating the potential for post-fire effects from the Bringham Fire. BAER assessment teams are staffed by specially trained professionals representing multiple disciplines who evaluate the burned area and prescribe emergency response actions to protect the land quickly and effectively.

Areas downstream of the Bringham Fire burned area, which recreationalist may use, are now more vulnerable to flash flooding and debris flows—ash, sand, silt, rocks and woody material. Rainfall runoff normally absorbed by soil and vegetation may runoff extremely quickly in a burned area because the soil is damaged, and the vegetation no longer exists.  Severely burned soils can be as water repellent as pavement. The power of moving water is deceptive and deadly. Recreationalist must be prepared to move to higher ground when chances of rain exist. During the monsoon season, these three simple rhymes may help save your life: “When thunder roars, go indoors; Turn around, don’t drown; and Stay away, stay alive.” Additionally, obey all posted warning signs. For the Bringham Fire flash flooding alerts and safety information, visit the National Weather Service website:  https://www.weather.gov/safety/flood.

Fire Details:
Location of Origin: Apache-Sitgreaves National Forests, Clifton Ranger District
Start Date: June 6, 2020        
Size: 23,142 Acres
Cause: Lightning                    
Percent Contained: 40%                                         
Personnel: 168                      
Fuels: Short Grass, Timber and Brush
Resources Assigned: 2 Type 2 initial attack crews, 3 Type 3 engines, 3 Type 6 engines, 5 water tenders, 1 Type 1 helicopter, 1 Type 2 helicopter, 1 Type 3 helicopter, miscellaneous overhead.

Information Resources:
Fire Information Officers are available from 8:00AM to 8:00PM at (928) 288-2154 or email at [email protected]. Fire information can be found at the following links:
• InciWeb: https://inciweb.nwcg.gov/incident/6747/
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/apachesitgreavesnfs/
• Closure Order: https://www.fs.usda.gov/detail/asnf/alerts-notices/?cid=stelprd3793918
• Southwest Region Smoke Outlook:https://wildlandfiresmoke.net/outlooks/SouthwesternRegion
• Bringham Fire Story Map: http://www.fs.usda.gov/goto/BringhamFireWebMap

Temperatures will be 70 to 78 degrees at upper elevation and 94 to 97 on the valley floor.  Winds will be lighter today 10-15 mph. Along the southern perimeter, the line has been contained east to Rattlesnake Canyon. Firefighters focused on structure protection between Summerhaven and Willow Canyon. Crews held and improved the perimeter of the 3-acre spot fire near Radio Ridge. Sections of the perimeter were plumbed with pumps and hoses.  The fire continued to back south down Green Mountain. Firefighters held the fire at the Redington Road including a 50-acre spot fire which crossed the road during Monday’s winds.  Dozers placed line around the spot fire and ground crews worked to mop it up.

Firefighters held and improved fireline along Redington Road.  North of Trail Tank road (#4429) fixed wing aircraft and helicopters used retardant and water to hold the line in check. East of Golder, firefighters monitored smoke on Samaniego Ridge.  These hot spots are not threatening the containment on the fire’s west side. Crews conducted backhaul, suppression repair, and patrol on the remaining fire area on the west, north, northeast, and south sides including Sabino Canyon. Initial attack resources responded to one new fire start northwest of the Bighorn fire.

Firefighters will focus on structure protection between Summerhaven and Willow Canyon and will continue work to contain the 3-acre spot fire near Radio Ridge. Firefighters will hold and improve fireline along Redington Road.  Aircraft and ground crews will check fire movement south towards Trail Tank Road (#4429). Firefighters will work on the fireline along the Piety Hill Road (#649) in the Beuhman Canyon area. Along the southeast side of the fire, crews will monitor and hold containment lines around ranching infrastructure. Around the remaining fire perimeter, crews will backhaul equipment, conduct suppression repair, and patrol. Initial attack resources will be available for any new fire starts in the area as monsoonal moisture moves in.

The next virtual public meeting will be on Friday, July 3 at 8 PM

Up To Date County Evacuation Information

PIMA: Pima.gov/bighorn

COCHISE: https://www.facebook.com/CochiseSO/

PINAL: https://public.alertsense.com/signup/

Sign up to receive emergency alerts at myalerts.pima.gov or pinalcountyaz.gov/emergencymanagement.

A temporary flight restriction is in place over the fire area. If you fly, we can’t. knowbeforeyoufly.org.

Closures: Sabino Canyon, Bear Canyon, and Catalina State Park are closed. Closures and maps at inciweb.nwcg.gov/incident/closures/6741/. Catalina Highway is closed to the public at milepost zero. Oracle Control Road is closed.

National Forest conditions: https://www.fs.usda.gov/alerts/coronado/alerts-notices

Fire Details:
Location:  Santa Catalina Mountains
Size: 118,370 acres
Containment: 54%
Injuries: 7 minor
Date detected: June 5, 2020
Cause: Lightning
Estimated cost: $3 MM5
Hand Crews: 17
Dozers: 6
Engines: 68
Water-tenders: 21
Helicopters: 9
Personnel: 905

As the Independence Day weekend approaches, Coconino County reminds residents and visitors that the use of fireworks is prohibited by current fire restrictions issued by the Coconino County Board of Supervisors.

On April 28, the County Board of Supervisors imposed a ban on open burning in unincorporated areas of the County to protect land from dangerous wildfires. Included in that ban is the use of consumer fireworks, other pyrotechnic displays, all open fires and campfires. These fire restrictions are in line with the United States Forest Service restrictions applicable
throughout the State of Arizona. Active forest fires have already occurred throughout the
County likely due to illegal campfires and other restricted measures.

The use of fireworks is prohibited on all federally and state managed lands, including national
forests, and on private lands in unincorporated territory within Coconino County.

“Wildfires and post wildfire flooding are two of the greatest threats to our community,” said
County Board of Supervisors Chairwoman Liz Archuleta. “Residents and visitors should be
mindful that Coconino County is actively responding to the COVID-19 pandemic and that an
added emergency would seriously strain our response capacity. We can all celebrate
Independence Day by keeping our communities safe from fire.”

Any person found to violate the April 28 proclamation is guilty of a class 1 misdemeanor.
Residents and visitors are always encouraged to check for current fire restrictions.

The Coconino County Board of Supervisors urges all residents and visitors to celebrate the
Fourth of July safely and responsibly. Continue to practice the recommended public health
practices including wearing face coverings, maintaining social distancing, and washing hands
frequently.

A wildfire approximately 4 miles north of Flagstaff on the west side of the San Francisco Peaks was reported at 5:30 a.m. today and is producing a lot of smoke visible to surrounding residents.

The Twisted Fire is currently about 2 acres with minimal activity, and firefighting resources on scene include a Hotshot crew, several engines, a dozer, and water tender.

More information will be posted on the Coconino National Forest Facebook and Twitter accounts as it is received.

Today’s Activity: Firefighters focused on structure protection between Summerhaven and Willow Canyon. A hotshot crew removed snags and was supported by helicopters to improve perimeter control around the 3-acre spot fire near Radio Ridge. A small spot fire near Palisades was contained. Firefighters held the fire in check at the Redington Road all day. Hand crews, engines, and aerial resources worked to hold and improve fireline along Redington Road, from Brush Corral Road (#447) on the north to Trail Tank road (#4429) on the south.

Yesterday’s 50-acre spot fire over Redington Road was mopped up. No structures have been lost. East of Golder, firefighters monitored smoke on Samaniego Ridge which is 2 miles east of the current fireline. Smoke seen in this area does not pose a threat to values at risk. Crews conducted backhaul, suppression repair, and patrol on the remaining fire area on the west, north, northeast, and south sides including Sabino Canyon. Initial attack resources responded to one new fire start not associated with the Bighorn fire. 

Tonight’s Activity: Firefighters will focus on structure protection between Summerhaven and Willow Canyon and work towards containing the 3-acre spot fire near Radio Ridge. The spot fire is creeping and smoldering in large downed fuels leftover from the Aspen fire. Firefighters will work to hold and improve fireline along Redington Road, north to the Brush Corral Road (#447), and south to the Trail Tank road (4429). Along the southeast side of the fire, crews will monitor and hold containment lines around ranching infrastructure. Crews will patrol for any spot fires that may cross the Redington Road. Crews will patrol the remaining fire perimeter including Sabino Canyon. 

Weather: Southwest winds will decrease overnight to 10-15mph. It will be mostly clear with temperatures 51-58 in the mountains and 65-70 in the valley. 

Current County Evacuation Information 
PIMA: Pima.gov/bighorn 
COCHISE:  https://www.facebook.com/CochiseSO/ 
PINAL:  https://public.alertsense.com/signup/ 

Sign up to receive emergency alerts at myalerts.pima.gov or pinalcountyaz.gov/emergencymanagement or for Cochise https://public,alertsense.com/signup/

A temporary flight restriction is in place over the fire area. If you fly, we can’t.

Closures: Sabino Canyon, Bear Canyon, and Catalina State Park are closed. Cascabel Road at the Cochise County/Pima County line is closed. Catalina Highway is closed to the public at milepost zero. Closures and maps at inciweb.nwcg.gov/incident/closures/6741/. 

National Forest conditions: https://www.fs.usda.gov/alerts/coronado/alerts-notices
 

Fire details
Incident Statistics Location: Santa Catalina Mountains

Size: 114,991 acres

Containment: 54%

Injuries: 7 minor

Date detected: June 5, 2020

Cause: Lightning

Estimated costL $36.5 MM

Resources : Hand Crews: 17 Dozers; 6 Engines: 68; Water-tenders: 21; Helicopters: 9 ;Personnel: 905

Information resources
Bighorn Fire Info: (520) 329-7439 & (520) 276-8981, 8AM-8PM 
Media Phone Line: (520) 329-7640, 8AM-8PM 
Website: https://inciweb.nwcg.gov/incident/6741/ 
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/bighornfireinfo 
Smoke: https://wildlandfiresmoke.net/outlooks/EasternArizona 
Burned Area Response: https://inciweb.nwcg.gov/incident/6796/ 
NWS Burn Scar https://www.weather.gov/twc/bighorn-burn-scar

Wildfires have burned more than 224,500 acres this year on the Tonto National Forest.  Ongoing extreme fire danger due to dry conditions and hot temperatures following a wet winter that produced an abundance of dry brush and grass, have led Tonto officials to close the state’s largest national forest beginning at 6 a.m. on July 2.

“We are currently seeing record setting fire danger conditions and new fire starts have become increasingly difficult to control.  This closure represents the best option at this time to deal with these conditions, and both reduce risk to the public and protect their forest lands for the future.” Taiga Rohrer, Tonto National Forest Fire Management Officer said.  “Additionally, it is extremely important that people travelling along highways through these areas ensure that their vehicles and trailers are in good condition and tow chains are properly secured to avoid causing roadside fires.” 

The Stage 3 Forest Closure means that all National Forest System lands contained within the Tonto are closed to the public, with the exception of the following:

Open areas:

• Roosevelt Lake - Beginning at the intersection of State Route (SR) 188 and Forest Route (FR) 84 Grapevine Road, then north along FR 84 to the east side of Grapevine Boat Ramp at the waterline of Roosevelt Lake.  Then following the waterline east to the confluence of the Salt River.  Then continuing along the Roosevelt Lake waterline northwest to the confluence of Tonto Creek.  Then up Tonto Creek to FR 60 then southwest to SR 188 and southeast along SR 188 back to the intersection of FR 84.  Note – Bermuda Flat, Cholla Bay and Bachelor Cove Shoreline Areas are closed. 
• Bartlett Reservoir - Beginning at Bartlett Dam along the waterline south and then east and then north up to the confluence of the Verde River.  Then following the western waterline south down to the Yellow Cliffs Boat Ramp and SB Cove Day Use Areas which are open, then south down the waterline to the Rattlesnake Day Use Area which is open.  Then south along the waterline to the Jojoba boat launch which is open, then up FR 19A to FR 19, then south to FR 185 and Bartlett Marina, which is open.  Then back down to the waterline of Bartlett Reservoir and then south along waterline back to Bartlett Dam.
• Canyon Lake – Starting at Mormon Flat Dam south along Mormon Flat Dam access road to SR 88 then east along SR 88 to Tortilla Creek Drainage then following drainage northwest to Canyon Lake waterline then along waterline to the base of Horse Mesa Dam then along waterline back to Mormon Flat Dam.
• Saguaro Lake & Lower Salt River – Starting at Stewart Mountain Dam following waterline east to Mormon Flat Dam then along waterline west to the courtesy dock near the end of Forest Road 206 (Saguaro Del Norte Recreation Area) above the lake.  Then following FR 206B to the Bush Highway, then north along the Bush Highway to SR 87 then along SR 87 to the Forest Boundary.  Then following the Forest Boundary south and west and across the Salt River to the Bush Highway.  Then along Bush Highway east to the Blue Point Bridge, then following the southern bank of the Salt River around east back to the Stewart Mountain Dam. Houston Mesa Campground – Elk, Black Bear, and Mountain Lion Loops
• Tortilla Flat Restaurant
• Roosevelt Lakeview Mobile Home Park off of SR 188 at Roosevelt Lake, but not beyond the park.

Open roads:

• Bush Highway (FR 204)
• FR 19 to Bartlett Reservoir Jojoba Boat Launch and Bartlett Marina
• FR 459A to Rattlesnake Day Use Area
• FR 459 to Yellow Cliffs Boat Launch and SB Cove Day Use Area
• FR 582 from SR 87 to the Buckhead Mesa Landfill
• FR 583 from SR 87 to Tonto Natural Bridge State Park

According to Neil Bosworth, Forest Supervisor, the decision is rooted in public and firefighter safety during the extreme fire danger currently being experienced throughout Arizona.  “We understand that closing the Tonto impacts businesses, partner agencies and the public as well as our restoration and other work on the forest,” Bosworth said. “Everyone is prohibited from entering the forest, unless specifically permitted for emergency activities.

“Steps to minimize the risk of fires and the danger to people are more important than recreation at the moment” Bosworth added.

Violations of these restrictions are punishable as a Class B misdemeanor, which means a fine of up to $5,000 for an individual or $10,000 for an organization, or imprisonment of up to six months, or both.

Fines and punishments are determined by a federal court judge.

The detailed closure order can be found on the Tonto National Forest website at https://www.fs.usda.gov/tonto by clicking on the Closure Orders & Restrictions in Effect link.

Numerous fires on the Tonto National Forest including the Bush Fire have been caused by vehicle fires, sparks from tow chains, or flat tires already this season. For more information about the One Less Spark, One Less Wildfire campaign, please visit: https://wildlandfire.az.gov/prevention-news

Drivers heading north to Payson, Mogollon Rim and White Mountains for the holiday weekend should budget extra time and consider alternate routes with 13 miles of State Route 87 still limited to one lane while crews repair guardrail and fencing damaged by the Bush Fire. 

ADOT is working to secure federal emergency relief funds to cover the $3.9 million cost of repairing guardrail and the right-of-way fence along northbound SR 87, as well as damage along State Route 188. The damaged SR 87 stretch with the right lane closed is between mileposts 223 and 236, approaching SR 188.

Drivers planning on heading to Payson and mountain areas to the east should plan extra travel time and consider Interstate 17 to State Route 260 as an alternate route to Payson and US 60 as an alternate route to the White Mountains.

The lane restriction has been in place for use by firefighters and repair crews since SR 87 reopened on June 23 after an extended closure.

Photo provided by Arizona Department of Transportation.

Effective 6:00 this morning, the Gila/Las Cruces Incident Management Team assumed command of the Mangum Fire. Although strong, gusty winds continued yesterday, containment lines held and there was no growth in acreage on the fire.  Predominantly westerly winds are expected to moderate over the next few days, providing an opportunity for fire crews to focus on suppression repair today.  Repair of dozer lines and containment lines, and felling hazard trees will occupy crews not engaged in suppression.  Isolated areas of active fire remain around the fire.  

Safety:  As the Fourth of July weekend approaches, tourist traffic is increasing.  Motorists should be alert for the presence of firefighting vehicles on local roads.

Closures: Forest Road 22 is closed between road 422 and road 429.  Highways 67 and 89A are open to public travel. For the North Rim of Grand Canyon National Park status see: https://www.Facebook.com/GrandCanyonNationalPark/ . The U.S. Forest Service and Bureau of Land Management have amended closure orders for the North Kaibab Ranger District and Bureau of Land Management land east of Fredonia. See: https://Facebook.com/KaibabNF/  and  https://blm.gov/office/arizona-strip-field-office/. 

Restrictions: Kaibab National Forest has implemented Stage 2 Fire Restrictions. For a full list of restrictions, please visit https://www.fs.usda.gov/alerts/kaibab/alerts-notices/?aid=58061.  

Evacuations: None.  The area along House Rock road remains under “ready” status.
    
Fire details
Location:  origin 30 miles south of Fredonia    
Start Date: June 6, 2020    
Acres: 71,450 Cause: under investigation    
Total Personnel: 497    
Containment: 63% 
Vegetation: Timber and piñon/juniper with grass/shrub understory
Resources: Three Type 1 20-person handcrews, four 20-person initial attack handcrews, 15 fire engines, 5 helicopters, 8 dozers, and 16 water tenders.

Fire information
Inciweb: https://inciweb.nwcg.gov  
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/MangumFire/
Twitter: @MangumFire 
Smoke Outlooks: https://fires.airfire.org/outlooks/NorthCentralArizona
CDC Wildfire Smoke and COVID-19: https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/php/smoke-faq.html
Wire Pass Fire Information: https://blm.gov/office/arizona-strip-field-office/  Phone # (435) 899-0415

 A temporary flight restriction is in place over the fire area. Wildfires are a No Drone Zone.  If you fly, we can’t.  

The Bush Fire remains 98% contained. Through the high winds yesterday the containment lines remained secure. Frequent ash whirls that looked like smoke were visible within the fire area; minimal smoke on the interior was observed. Interior burning activity and smoke may be present until the fire area receives widespread moisture from monsoons. The Arizona Central West Zone Type 3 Incident Management Team is working with the Tonto National Forest to transition management to the forest in the coming days.
Resources assigned to the fire supported new fires yesterday and will continue to support be available for initial attack on new fires.

For your safety and ours, please drive with caution. Firefighters continue to work along Highway 87 and 188. Drivers should expect fire personnel and cooperators to be working on highway shoulders and should use extreme caution. Slow down and watch for firefighters working along the highways. Please not stop along the road in the fire area.

Road Status Information: https://az511.com/ or call 511 

Evacuation Status: READY – No active evacuations. Learn more about “Ready-Set-Go Arizona” and sign up for emergency notifications for your county: https://ein.az.gov/ready-set-go

Smoke Outlook:https://fires.airfire.org/outlooks/CentralArizona.

Wildfires are a No Drone Zone. If you fly, we can’t. Every time a drone is spotted near the fire all aircraft are grounded until we can be sure the drone is clear of this area. More info visit http://knowbeforeyoufly.org.

Fire Details:
Acres: 193,455 acres                                                             
Percent Containment: 98%
Start Date: Saturday, June 13, 2020                                                          
Cause: Human-caused
Origin Location: 22 miles NE of Mesa,AZ                                              
Fuels: Tall grass and brush
Resources: approx. 120 personnel including 1 Type 1 Crew; 8 Engines; 1 dozer; 2 water tenders

Information Resources:
Fire Information: 928-351-7596 (public)                                                
Inciweb: https://inciweb.nwcg.gov/incident/6773/                           
Facebook: Fb.com/bushfireinfo Email: [email protected]                          
Twitter:twitter.com/TontoForest

The Central Fire is 100% contained. This will be Central Fire final update, resources are demobilizing.

Fire details:
Acres: 4,499 acres (no change)
Percent Containment: 100%
Start Date: Saturday, June 20, 2020      
Cause: Human-caused
Origin Location: East of New River, AZ
Fuels: Tall grass and brush
Resources: approx. 50 personnel including 1 Type 2 IA crew; 4 engines, 1 water tender and 1 dozer
 
Emergency Stabilization-Burned Area Emergency Response (BAER) assessments are in progress. For more information, visit: https://inciweb.nwcg.gov/incident/6803/
 
The Tonto National Forest has an area closures surrounding the Bush and Central Fires. Fire restrictions remain in place. Details are available at https://www.fs.usda.gov/alerts/tonto/alerts-notices.

For your safety and ours, please drive with caution. Firefighters continue to work along Highway 87 and 188. Drivers should expect fire personnel and cooperators to be working on highway shoulders and should use extreme caution. Slow down and watch for firefighters working along the highways. Please not stop along the road in the fire area.
Road Status Information: https://az511.com/ or call 511. 
 
Evacuation Status: READY – No active evacuations. Learn more about “Ready-Set-Go Arizona”  at https://ein.az.gov/ready-set-go.
 
Smoke Outlook:https://fires.airfire.org/outlooks/CentralArizona.
 
Wildfires are a No Drone Zone. If you fly, we can’t. Every time a drone is spotted near the fire all aircraft are grounded until we can be sure the drone is clear of this area. More info visit http://knowbeforeyoufly.org.
 
Fire Information

Phone:  928-351-7596 (public)    
Inciweb: https://inciweb.nwcg.gov/incident/6773/                           
Facebook: Fb.com/bushfireinfo 
Email: [email protected]                          
Twitter:twitter.com/TontoForest
 

Weather will be hot, dry and windy again today. Expect active fire behavior.

Crews patrolled from Summerhaven to Willow Canyon last night. The spot fire near Radio Ridge was held in check. Resources used existing roads, dozer line, and direct attack, to keep the fire from spreading east of Redington Road. A 50-acre spot fire east of the road was contained. Fireline along Redington road was conducted from approximately 1½ miles south of Redington south to Trail Tank Road (#4429). The remaining fire areas on the south, west, and north sides, including Sabino Canyon were in patrol status.

New Evacuation Areas in Pima and Cochise County:  PIMA: GO-Southeastern Catalinas area around Redington Road, bounded by the county line on the east. SET-See Table.  COCHISE: READY-C1 Cascabel to Hookers Hot Springs; C2 Cascabel south and north of Pomerene; C3 Mescal to Pomerene. Benson is not in a designated zone at this time. Cascabel Road at the Cochise County/Pima County line is closed.

Today’s Activity: Air operations will begin earlier but may be limited later in the day due to high winds. Firefighters will focus on structure protection between Summerhaven and Willow Canyon and work to improve containment around the 3-acre spot fire near Radio Ridge. Firefighters will work to hold and improve fireline along Redington Road, moving north to the Brush Corral Road (#447) to prevent eastward fire spread. Along the southeast side of the fire, crews will identify and prepare containment lines around ranching infrastructure. East of Golder, firefighters will monitor smoke on Samaniego Ridge which is 2 miles east of the current fireline.  Crews will conduct equipment backhaul, suppression repair, and patrol on the remaining fire area on the west, north, northeast, and south sides including Sabino Canyon. Initial attack resources will be available to respond to new fire starts. 

GO - Evacuate

• Southern Catalina Foothills, Catalina Highway on the western border and Redington Road on the east
• Redington community bordered by county lines on north and east
• East slope of the Catalina Mountains south of the Pima County line and west of the community of Redington
• Mt. Lemmon, Summerhaven and Mt. Bigelow
• Lower Catalina Highway/Lower Mt. Lemmon Communities from Organization Ridge Road to South Willow Canyon
• Southern Catalinas area around Redington Road, bounded by the county line on the east

SET – Be Alert

• Southeastern Catalina Foothills, in the Redington area bounded by the Forest Service line on the west and the Italian Trap Tank on the east. Refer to Pima County Sherriff’s Department Interactive Map for specific boundaries.

 
READY – Prepare Now

• Community of Oracle
• Portions of east Golder Ranch area
• Catalina Foothills areas east of Kolb Road within northern areas of Ventana Canyon neighborhoods
• Peppersauce Canyon to Highjinks Road and Campo Benito
• Oro Valley areas from Catalina State Park south to Magee Road
• Catalina foothills areas from First Avenue to Alvernon Way
• Catalina Foothills between Alvernon Way and Kolb Road, north of Skyline Drive

Sign up to receive emergency alerts at myalerts.pima.gov or pinalcountyaz.gov/emergencymanagement.

A temporary flight restriction is in place over the fire area. If you fly, we can’t. knowbeforeyoufly.org.

Closures: Sabino Canyon, Bear Canyon, and Catalina State Park are closed. Closures and maps at inciweb.nwcg.gov/incident/closures/6741/. Catalina Highway is closed to the public at milepost zero. Oracle Control Road is closed.

National Forest conditions: https://www.fs.usda.gov/alerts/coronado/alerts-notices

Fire Details:
Location:  Santa Catalina Mountains
Size: 114,991 acres
Containment: 45%
Injuries: 7 minor
Date detected: June 5, 2020
Cause: Lightning
Estimated cost: $35.2 MM
Hand Crews: 21
Dozers: 6
Engines: 74
Water-tenders: 21
Helicopters: 10
Personnel: 1018

Information Resources:
Media Phone Line: (520) 329-7640, 8AM-8PM
Bighorn Fire Info: (520) 329-7439 & (520) 276-8981, 8AM-8PM
Website: https://inciweb.nwcg.gov/incident/6741/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/bighornfireinfo
Smoke: https://wildlandfiresmoke.net/outlooks/EasternArizona
Burned Area Response: https://inciweb.nwcg.gov/incident/6796/

The fire was very active and driven to the north and east by the strong and gusty southwest winds. Maximum wind speeds of 54 mph were observed on Radio Ridge. An indirect dozer line was constructed around the spot fire near the radio towers and protected structures close to the spot fire. Structure protection crews worked in the Summerhaven area. Crews continued improving fireline along the Catalina Highway south of Green Mountain. Along the fire’s eastern edge, gusty winds forced helicopters to be grounded at midafternoon. Pushed by strong southwest winds, the fire spotted out of Beuhman Canyon across Piety Hill Road, burning north and east towards Redington Road. By late afternoon, a spot fire had crossed Redington Road and was picked up by engine crews. Sabino Canyon was monitored and initial attack resources were available for any new fire starts. Suppression repair, equipment backhaul, and patrol work were conducted on the south, west, and north sides of the fire in conjunction with patrolling the fireline.

A swing shift of firefighters will work later into the evening in support of night operations. Work will focus on holding the spot fire near the Mount Lemmon radio towers and holding fire west of the Redington Road. Structure protection will be in place near the radio tower as well as throughout the active fire areas along the Catalina Highway. The remaining fire area on the south, west, and north sides, including Sabino Canyon, will be in patrol status.

GO - Evacuate

• Southern Catalina Foothills, Catalina Highway on the western border and Redington Road on the east
• Redington community bordered by county lines on north and east
• East slope of the Catalina Mountains south of the Pima County line and west of the community of Redington
• Mt. Lemmon, Summerhaven and Mt. Bigelow
• Lower Catalina Highway/Lower Mt. Lemmon Communities from Organization Ridge Road to South Willow Canyon

SET – Be Alert

• Southern Catalina Foothills, bounded by Forest Service boundary on the west and County line on the east

READY – Prepare Now

• Community of Oracle
• Portions of east Golder Ranch area
• Catalina Foothills areas east of Kolb Road within northern areas of Ventana Canyon neighborhoods
• Peppersauce Canyon to Highjinks Road and Campo Benito
• Oro Valley areas from Catalina State Park south to Magee Road
• Catalina foothills areas from First Avenue to Alvernon Way
• Catalina Foothills between Alvernon Way and Kolb Road, north of Skyline Drive

Sign up to receive emergency alerts at myalerts.pima.gov or pinalcountyaz.gov/emergencymanagement.

A temporary flight restriction is in place over the fire area. If you fly, we can’t. knowbeforeyoufly.org.

Closures: Sabino Canyon, Bear Canyon, and Catalina State Park are closed. Closures and maps at inciweb.nwcg.gov/incident/closures/6741/. Catalina Highway is closed to the public at milepost zero. Oracle Control Road is closed.

National Forest conditions: https://www.fs.usda.gov/alerts/coronado/alerts-notices

Fire Details:
Location:  Santa Catalina Mountains
Size: 107,099 acres
Containment: 45%
Injuries: 7 minor
Date detected: June 5, 2020
Cause: Lightning
Estimated cost: $35.2 MM
Hand Crews: 21
Dozers: 6
Engines: 74
Water-tenders: 21
Helicopters: 10
Personnel: 1018

Today’s Activity: The fire was very active and driven to the north and east by the strong and gusty southwest winds. Maximum wind speeds of 54 mph were observed on Radio Ridge. An indirect dozer line was constructed around the spot fire near the radio towers and protected structures close to the spot fire. Structure protection crews worked in the Summerhaven area. Crews continued improving fireline along the Catalina Highway south of Green Mountain. Along the fire’s eastern edge, gusty winds forced helicopters to be grounded at midafternoon. Pushed by strong southwest winds, the fire spotted out of Beuhman Canyon across Piety Hill Road, burning north and east towards Redington Road. By late afternoon, a spot fire had crossed Redington Road and was picked up by engine crews. Sabino Canyon was monitored and initial attack resources were available for any new fire starts. Suppression repair, equipment backhaul, and patrol work were conducted on the south, west, and north sides of the fire in conjunction with patrolling the fireline.

Tonight’s Activities:  A swing shift of firefighters will work later into the evening in support of night operations. Work will focus on holding the spot fire near the Mount Lemmon radio towers and holding fire west of the Redington Road. Structure protection will be in place near the radio tower as well as throughout the active fire areas along the Catalina Highway. The remaining fire area on the south, west, and north sides, including Sabino Canyon, will be in patrol status.

GO - Evacuate

·   Southern Catalina Foothills, Catalina Highway on the western border and Redington Road on the east

·   Redington community bordered by county lines on north and east

·   East slope of the Catalina Mountains south of the Pima County line and west of the community of Redington

·   Mt. Lemmon, Summerhaven and Mt. Bigelow

·   Lower Catalina Highway/Lower Mt. Lemmon Communities from Organization Ridge Road to South Willow Canyon

SET – Be Alert

·   Southern Catalina Foothills, bounded by Forest Service boundary on the west and County line on the east
 
READY – Prepare Now
Community of Oracle
Portions of east Golder Ranch area
Catalina Foothills areas east of Kolb Road within northern areas of Ventana Canyon neighborhoods
Peppersauce Canyon to Highjinks Road and Campo Benito
Oro Valley areas from Catalina State Park south to Magee Road
Catalina foothills areas from First Avenue to Alvernon Way
Catalina Foothills between Alvernon Way and Kolb Road, north of Skyline Drive
 

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A temporary flight restriction is in place over the fire area. If you fly, we can’t. knowbeforeyoufly.org.

Closures: Sabino Canyon, Bear Canyon, and Catalina State Park are closed. Closures and maps at inciweb.nwcg.gov/incident/closures/6741/. Catalina Highway is closed to the public at milepost zero. Oracle Control Road is closed.

National Forest conditions: https://www.fs.usda.gov/alerts/coronado/alerts-notices

Fire Details:
Location:  Santa Catalina Mountains
Size: 107,099 acres
Containment: 45%
Injuries: 7 minor
Date detected: June 5, 2020
Cause: Lightning
Estimated cost: $35.2 MM
Hand Crews: 21
Dozers: 6
Engines: 74
Water-tenders: 21
Helicopters: 10
Personnel: 1018

Information Resources:
Media Phone Line: (520) 329-7640, 8AM-8PM
Bighorn Fire Info: (520) 329-7439 & (520) 276-8981, 8AM-8PM
Website: https://inciweb.nwcg.gov/incident/6741/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/bighornfireinfo
Smoke: https://wildlandfiresmoke.net/outlooks/EasternArizona
Burned Area Response: https://inciweb.nwcg.gov/incident/6796/

Media Phone Line: (520) 329-7640, 8AM-8PM
Bighorn Fire Info: (520) 329-7439 & (520) 276-8981, 8AM-8PM
Website: https://inciweb.nwcg.gov/incident/6741/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/bighornfireinfo
Smoke: https://wildlandfiresmoke.net/outlooks/EasternArizona
Burned Area Response: https://inciweb.nwcg.gov/incident/6796/