Arizona Emergency Information Network

Evacuations have been changed to “SET” for all neighborhoods associated with the Tunnel Fire. Residents returning to the area are reminded that the conditions and status of evacuation levels could change at any time based on fire behavior. 

Caution is advised as there will be increased traffic as firefighters continue patrolling and mopping up areas of heat. The landscape is very dynamic immediately after a fire and travel within the fire area can be hazardous. Examples of hazards include fire weakened trees that may fall without warning, loss of ground vegetation can loosen rolling debris and rocks and ash pits from stumps may look benign, but will hold hot ash for quite a while and can cause severe burns if stepped in.

As interior islands of vegetation burn and large logs and stumps smolder, smoke will be present. If you see smoke or fire please do not call 911 unless it is outside the fire perimeter or poses a threat. If you are unsure, please call 911.

Today’s Activities: Firefighters will continue to work within the Timberline Estates and Wupatki Trails Subdivisions. Crews are constructing line between O’Leary Peak and Black Mountain and may conduct burnout operations to secure fireline if needed. Crews will continue working the spot fire on 89 Mesa and construct fireline in the Strawberry Crater Wilderness area. Patrol and mop-up will continue along Forest Road 545 on the southern edge of the fire.  

Evacuations: Information about evacuations is updated online at the Coconino County Tunnel Fire page. The County has also established a Coconino County Tunnel Fire Call Center at 928-679-8525.

Closures: The Coconino National Forest has instituted a Forest Closure Order for the area affected by the Tunnel Fire.

The closure for U.S. Highway 89 remains in effect until 1:00 pm today. Please contact AZ 511 for the most up-to-date status of U.S. Highway 89.

Fire Details:
Start date: April 17, 2022
Cause: Under investigation
Incident Commander:
Randy Johnson
Pacific Northwest Team 3
Size: 21,164 acres
Containment: 3 percent
Total personnel: 366
Location: 14 miles northeast of Flagstaff, Ariz.
Resources: 9 Crews, 19 Engines, 5 Dozers, 1 Air Attack Plane, 2 Helicopters

Information Resources:
Inciweb: https://inciweb.nwcg.gov/incident/8068/ 
Email: [email protected]
Facebook: U.S. Forest Service - Coconino National Forest
Twitter: twitter.com/CoconinoNF

There will be a community meeting today, April 24th, 2022, at 6:00 p.m., at Embry Riddle University in “The Hanger”, 3700 Willow Creek Dr., Prescott, Arizona. The meeting will be live-streamed to the Prescott National Forest Facebook page.  If you are unable to attend, the recording will be available to view afterward, visit: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCzbIoBB-yAclQO_Hz0hBMQQ or https://www.facebook.com/PrescottNF.

Yesterday, drier fuels with lower humidity led to increased fire activity on the southwest flank, creating a large smoke plume visible from Prescott and the surrounding communities.  Helicopters and air tankers dropped water and retardant which assisted firefighters in slowing fire growth on the southwest side near Ash Creek drainage. The fire was moderately active, burning surface fuels in the vicinity of Yankee Doodle Peak. Firefighters continued to mop up (making sure the fire is out by dousing hot spots with water) from Mt. Union around the northeast edge of the fire to Moscow Peak.

Today’s priorities will be to continue to establish control lines in the southwest section of the fire on Ash Creek Ridge. Aircraft will be active again in this part of the fire to assist in slowing the fire’s spread to the west.  The northern and eastern flanks will remain in patrol status as crews will continue to mop up and strengthen the line up to Mt. Union.

WEATHER: Dry conditions will persist over the fire, with afternoon humidity dipping below 20%.  Winds will be out of the north and northwest with gusts up to 15 mph. The warming and drying trend will continue today through Monday.  The north winds will switch to light southeasterly winds, with the humidity possibly only reaching the single digits.

SMOKE INFORMATION:  Arizona Smoke Forecasting system information can be located at https://azdeq.gov/wildfireforecast?fire=crooksfire

EVACUATIONS:  There is no change to the evacuation status.  Information about the current evacuation status can be found on the Yavapai County Sheriff’s Department Facebook page at: https://www.facebook.com/YavapaiCountySheriff/

FOREST CLOSURE: To provide public health and safety due to firefighting operations and fire danger

associated with the uncontrolled Crooks Fire the Prescott National Forest has implemented a fire area emergency closure.  To view the Crooks Fire area closure order and map visit: Prescott National Forest - Alerts & Notices (usda.gov)

Fire Details:
Start Date: April 18, 2022
Location: 10 miles south of Prescott-Bradshaw Ranger District (T12N, R2W, SEC 12), near Mt Union.
Size: Approximately 3,091 acres, 15% Containment
Cause: Under Investigation
Vegetation: Brush, Ponderosa Pine, and Mixed Conifer
Number of Personnel Assigned: 615
Resources Assigned:  6 - Type 1 Hotshot crews, 4 - Type 2 Hand crews, 29 - Engines, 11 - Helicopters, Miscellaneous Equipment, and Overhead. 

Information Resources:
https://inciweb.nwcg.gov/incident/8067/                         
Fire Information Line: 928-925-1111; Hours: 8 a.m. - 7 p.m.
https://www.facebook.com/PrescottNF                          
Email: [email protected]
https://twitter.com/PrescottNF

The Coconino County Sheriff’s Office is pleased to announce that we are lifting the “GO” evacuation order as of 9:00 AM Sunday morning April 24th, 2022, for the residents living in the neighborhoods along Highway 89. The Tunnel Fire Incident Management Team has determined that the status and condition of the fire at this time is no longer an imminent threat to the neighborhoods along Highway 89 and has recommended allowing residents back into their homes.

Residents returning to these neighborhoods will return to a “SET” status. The Incident Management Team and the Sheriff’s Office reminds residents that the conditions and status of the fire could change at any time resulting the return of a “GO” evacuation status. We will continue to closely monitor the situation and will communicate any change in status as soon as possible. This includes the neighborhoods of Timberline, Fernwood, Wupatki Trails, Girls Ranch Road, and Lenox Park. It is important to note that the Coconino National Forest in that area, including the Cinder Lakes OHV Area, will remain closed, due to a temporary closure order from the US Forest Service. The downgrade from “GO” to “SET” is mainly applicable for the private properties that lie within these areas.

The Sheriff’s Office will begin the re-entry of these residents at 9:00 AM Sunday, April 24, 2022.
Evacuated residents are instructed to report in person to the north parking lot of the Silver Saddle
Trading Post, located at 9001 N US Highway 89 in Flagstaff, AZ. Residents will be required to
show identification or other documents verifying their address before they are allowed entry.
Residents are required to check in at this location prior to accessing the neighborhood. Once the
check-in process has been completed, residents will be able to access their properties.

Those who do not check in at the re-entry point, you will be turned around at the roadblock at
Campbell and Hwy 89 and instructed to return to the Silver Saddle re-ntry point. No one else is
allowed to return to the evacuated area but residents during this time, to ensure enough time is
allowed to evaluate their properties. Prior to opening Hwy 89 to passing motorists and removing
all individual roadway checkpoints, it is vital all residents check in.

The Hwy will remain closed Until 1:00 pm. The Coconino County Sheriff’s Office will continue to patrol the area heavily and enforce closures. All members of the public are reminded to be cautious of the increase in traffic in firefighting apparatus and closure of the forest along Hwy 89 in and around the fire area.

As residents return, you should be aware of some expected by-products of wildfire, such as smoldering stumps and sinkholes are normal. Should you observe hazardous tree or structure
issues, we ask you to contact the appropriate agency on their non–emergency numbers to address
these problems. If you observe any emergency issues such as spot fires or immediate threats to
yourself or the community,contact 911.

For information related to re-entry, please visit www.coconino.az.gov/Re-Entry-Information
Those impacted by the Tunnel Fire can receive in-person and online support and services
through the Coconino County Assistance Center. In-person services are offered at The
Guidance Center from 9am – 7pm daily at 2695 E Industrial Dr., Flagstaff/or access via 2187
N Vickey St., Flagstaff, AZ 86004 (look for the sandwich board signs). Online services can be
found at coconino.az.gov/help. Please call the Tunnel Fire Call Center with questions at (928)
679-8525 from 7 am to 7 pm.

Find ongoing updates related to the Tunnel Fire at coconino.az.gov/TunnelFire

We thank you for your patience during this difficult time. Continue to monitor CCSO, Coconino County, Tunnel Fire social media and official news releases for additional information.

Current Situation: Winds are expected to shift, coming from the north and northeast today and tomorrow. Firefighters are positioned to respond.

Today’s Activities: Fire crews continue working on the spot fire on 89 Mesa. Fireline construction with bulldozers and hand crews is ongoing around the edge of the fire between O’Leary Peak and Black Mountain. Crews continue to patrol and mop up hot spots in the Timberline Estates and Wupatki Trails subdivisions, as well as along the southern flank of the fire along Forest Road 545. To contain the fire’s east edge, crews will also build fireline line in Strawberry Crater north from Forest Road 545.

Pacific Northwest Team 3 transitioned with the outgoing Northern Arizona Type 3 incident management team this morning. The two teams have been working together since Thursday afternoon to ensure a smooth transfer.

Evacuations: 
Information about evacuations, structures that have been burned, and when evacuation levels may change, is updated online at the Coconino County Tunnel Fire page. The County has also established a Coconino County Tunnel Fire Call Center at 928-679-8525.

Closures: 
The Coconino National Forest has instituted a Forest Closure Order for the area affected by the Tunnel Fire.

U.S. Highway 89 is closed from near milepost 425 (Campbell Road intersection) to 445. Officials are assessing conditions daily and the reopening of the highway is dependent on fire activity. Please contact AZ 511 for the most up-to-date status of U.S. Highway 89.

Fire Details:
Start date: April 17, 2022
Cause: Under investigation
Incident Commander:
Randy Johnson
Pacific Northwest Team 3
Size: 21,164 acres
Containment: 3 percent
Total personnel: 334
Location: 14 miles northeast of Flagstaff
Resources: 9 Crews, 18 Engines, 5 Dozers, 1 Air Attack Plane, 3 Helicopters

Information Resources:
Inciweb: https://inciweb.nwcg.gov/incident/8068/
Facebook: U.S. Forest Service - Coconino National Forest
Twitter: twitter.com/CoconinoNF

Despite the significant wind event yesterday, there was minimal fire growth.  Firefighters were successful in holding the northern flank and preventing further spread.  Helicopters dropped water and fixed-wing aircraft dropped retardant to protect structures on the east side of Lookout Mountain.  Hand crews and dozers completed a direct line on Big Bug Road to Moscow Peak. Fire managers scouted for opportunities for constructing control lines on the southern flank. 
Today hand crews will continue to build a direct line south of Mt. Tritle to protect Lookout Mountain and structures.  Ongoing work on securing the control line from Mt. Davis south to Moscow Peak will continue to prevent fire spread to the east.

Fire behavior is flanking and backing in the southern area of the fire.  Heavy dead and down fuels are drought-stressed and very receptive to embers where fire can move up into the crowns of trees.

A community meeting will be held Sunday, April 24th, 2022, at 6:00 p.m., at Embry Riddle University in the Hanger, 3700 Willow Creek Dr., Prescott, Arizona. The meeting will be live-streamed to the Prescott National Forest Facebook.  If you are unable to attend, the recording will be available to view afterward, visit: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCzbIoBB-yAclQO_Hz0hBMQQ or https://www.facebook.com/PrescottNF.

WEATHER: Higher humidity levels helped suppress burning and assist firefighters in slowing the growth. Today much lighter winds will be present throughout the day, 5-10 mph, with gusts up to 20 mph with cooler temperatures and drier weather by this afternoon. 

SMOKE INFORMATION:  Arizona Smoke Forecasting system information can be located at https://azdeq.gov/wildfireforecast?fire=crooksfire

EVACUATIONS:  There is no change to the evacuation status.  Information about the current evacuation status can be found on the Yavapai County Sheriff’s Department Facebook page at: https://www.facebook.com/YavapaiCountySheriff/

FOREST CLOSURE: To provide public health and safety due to firefighting operations and fire danger
associated with the uncontrolled Crooks Fire the Prescott National Forest has implemented a fire 
area emergency closure.  To view the Crooks Fire area closure order and map visit: Prescott National Forest - Alerts & Notices (usda.gov)      

Fire Details:
Location: 10 miles south of Prescott-Bradshaw Ranger District (T12N, R2W, SEC 12), near Mt Union.
Start Date: April 18, 2022
Size: Approximately 2,804 acres, 5% Containment
Cause: Under Investigation
Vegetation: Brush, Ponderosa Pine, and Mixed Conifer
Number of Personnel Assigned: 535
Resources Assigned:  6 - Type 1 Hotshot crews, 3 - Type 2 Hand crews, 32 - Engines, 5 - Helicopters, Miscellaneous Equipment, and Overhead. 

Information Resources:
Public Information Line: 928-925-1111; Hours: 8 a.m. - 7 p.m.
https://inciweb.nwcg.gov/incident/8067/                         
https://www.facebook.com/PrescottNF                          
Email: [email protected]            
https://twitter.com/PrescottNF       

Crews continued Friday building line around the now 20,924-acre Tunnel Fire northeast of Flagstaff, while battling high winds and welcoming unusual precipitation in the form of scattered rain and sporadic snow showers.
 
Snow and rain did help douse dry grasses and keep them from igniting more easily, but precipitation levels weren’t high enough to affect large burning logs and extreme hotspots across most of the fire. High winds also resulted in drying out precipitation very quickly after it dropped.
 
Two areas of the fire were active even with the moisture. The spot fire that began last night on 89 Mesa in the Schultz Fire burn scar grew to 500 acres today, with large down trees left over from the Schultz Fire helping keep the spot alive. Firefighters were able to create a line around the entire spot fire, but strong winds continued to cultivate dry conditions. 
 
The second active area was in the northeast portion of the fire in the Strawberry Crater Wilderness area. This finger of the Tunnel Fire burned actively and fortunately moved out into flatter terrain and sparser fuel which is expected to slow the fire’s growth.
 
Across the rest of the fire, bulldozers and hand crews are building line around the edge of the fire between O’Leary Peak and Black Mountain and crews continued to patrol and mop up hot spots in the Timberline Estates and Wupatki Trails subdivisions, as well as along the southern flank of the fire along Forest Road 545.
 
Strong shifting winds out of the north and east forecast for Saturday and Sunday are still a major concern for fire managers, who are hesitant to call certain areas contained until these wind events pass, so have stuck with a containment number of 3 percent.
 
Current firefighting resources on scene include 371 firefighters, nine 20-person hand crews, five dozers, 30 engines, one air attack plane, two Type 1 helicopters, and one Type 3 helicopter.

The Coconino National Forest has instituted a Forest Closure Order for the area affected by the Tunnel Fire. U.S. Highway 89 is still closed from near milepost 425 (Campbell Road intersection) to 445, but officials are assessing conditions daily. The reopening of the highway is dependent on fire activity and closure allows quick and safe response for firefighters.

Information about evacuations, structures that have been burned, and when people might be able to return is handled by Coconino County, which is posting updates online via their Coconino County Tunnel Fire page. The County has also established a Coconino County Tunnel Fire Call Center at 928-679-8525 that the public can call with questions. 

Coconino County Sheriff’s Office released a statement last night that an estimated 109 properties were impacted by the fire, including 30 residences that were burned and 24 properties with outbuildings destroyed.
All information regarding current firefighting efforts and the direction and activity of the fire is regularly updated on the Tunnel Fire Inciweb page at https://inciweb.nwcg.gov/incident/8068/.
 
Media representatives can reach information officers by calling the MEDIA Line at 928-224-8306. Media representatives must leave a message if they expect a call back.

Tunnel Fire Details:
Date reported: April 17, 2022
Cause: Under investigation.
Origin: 14 miles northeast of Flagstaff, Doney Park. (GPS: 35.304167, -111.588611)
Current size: 20,924 acres.
Percent contained: 3%
Structures lost: 30 residences burned and 24 properties with outbuildings destroyed.
Current resources: 371 firefighters, nine 20-person hand crews, five dozers, 30 engines, one air attack plane, two Type 1 helicopters, and one Type 3 helicopter.
Current closures: U.S. Highway 89 is closed from milepost 425 to 445. The closure is being assessed daily to see when the road can be safely opened. Coconino National Forest has instituted a Forest Closure Order for the area affected by the Tunnel Fire.
Evacuation information: Please visit the Coconino County Emergency Management page for the Tunnel Fire at https://www.coconino.az.gov/2894/Tunnel-Fire . The Coconino County Tunnel Fire Call Center can be reached at 928-679-8525

A Tunnel Fire Community Meeting will be held 2:00 p.m. tomorrow, Saturday, April 23, at Sinagua Middle School, 3950 E. Butler Avenue, Flagstaff (parking information below).

This meeting is to provide an update regarding the fire conditions, potential flood risk, and evacuation status.

Representatives from the County, Sheriff’s Office, U.S. Forest Service, U.S. Weather Service, and Tunnel Fire Type 1 Incident Management Team will provide information on these topics and be available to answer questions. American Sign Language interpretation will be available at the meeting.

The meeting will also be broadcast live on the Coconino County Facebook page (www.facebook.com/coconinocounty).

People are advised to park behind the school (on the west side of Sinagua Middle Schoool). From N. 4th street, turn onto Sparrow Avenue, then enter the parking lot off Mustang Way, adjacent to the ball field. ADA parking is available. Signage will be displayed. Overflow parking will be available in the school’s east parking lot, which is entered from East Butler Avenue, 3950 East Butler Avenue.

For any questions, please contact the Tunnel Fire Call Center at 928-679-8525. The map of the location is also available on our website at coconino.az.gov/tunnelfire.

WHO:           Residents and property owners with re-entry protocol questions and other questions about the Tunnel Fire

WHAT:         Tunnel Fire Community Meeting

WHEN:         2:00 p.m. Saturday, April 23, 2022

WHERE:       Sinagua Middle School

Park behind the school (west side)

3950 E Butler Avenue

Flagstaff, Ariz. 86004

On April 22, 2022 in the early morning hours a spot fire started in the Timberline Community west of Hwy 89 in the “GO” evacuation area. Deputies and Officers working overnight security in the evacuated areas recontacted the residents who refused to initially evacuate on Tuesday to notify them of the increased danger and remind them of the “GO” evacuation order. This fire was in the area of Wupatki Trails, Lenox Park, Pumpkin Patch, and Brandis Trail neighborhoods. Deputies and Officers went door to door and used sirens and loudspeakers in an attempt to wake residents to warn them of the fire threat.

In addition, during the evening hours of the 21st, Deputies made two arrests in the “GO” evacuation area. One subject was contacted in a UTV vehicle as he was attempting to access the closed area in Timberline. After Deputies found that he was impaired, he was arrested for DUI. The other subject ran a roadblock and fled into the closure area. When he fled, he almost struck public works employees manning the roadblocks as well as a Deputy who was attempting to contact him. He was apprehended and charged with Aggravated assault on a Law Enforcement Officer, Violating the Fire Ban, Endangerment, and Felony Flight. We ask that residents please be patient a little longer as fire suppression efforts continue. The fire is still in an unpredictable and uncontrolled state, as evident by the fire activity during the evening hours last night. Deputy escorts will continue as needed into the closure area as long as it is safe and there are resources to do so. Please bring identification and information to show where you live within the closure area. This opportunity is currently available at the East Valley Baptist Church located just south of the Road closure at 10655 North Highway 89, Flagstaff AZ, 86004.

The Sheriff’s Office would like to thank all the residents for their patience during this trying time and want them to know we are doing as much as possible to get everyone back into their homes as soon as it is safe to return. The Sheriff’s Office would also like to thank our Law Enforcement partners in assisting us to maintain security in the “GO” evacuation area as well as providing escorts. These include the Navajo County Sheriff’s Office, Gila County Sheriff’s Office, the Flagstaff Police Department, and the Arizona Department of Public Safety. We have also had significant support and assistance from the Coconino County Public Works Department. These partners, along with our dedicated C.E.R.T., Search and Rescue, and Patrol Volunteers have made it possible to maintain our high standard of Service to the Community during this incident.

For an interactive evacuation and fire map, along with other up to date Tunnel Fire and Evacuation information visit www.coconino.az.gov/2894/Tunnel-Fire.

The Maricopa County Air Quality Department has declared a No Burn Day for Friday, April 22 due to elevated levels of PM-10 (dust).

Restrictions

• Wood burning in residential fireplaces, chimeneas, outdoor fire pits, and similar outdoor fires is prohibited in Maricopa County. This includes individuals and businesses which have burn permits for open burning.
• Employees and contractors of government entities are prohibited from operating leaf blowers. Residents are encouraged to avoid leaf blowing.
• Off-road vehicle use should be avoided.

Take Action

• Eliminate wood burning in fireplaces, stoves, chimeneas, and outdoor fire pits.
• Convert your wood burning fireplace to natural gas or propane. Check if you are eligible to receive up to $2,000 to upgrade your fireplace to natural gas by visiting CleanAirMakeMore.com/fireplace.
• Avoid using leaf blowers. Use a rake or broom to keep debris out of the road and away from storm drains, ditches, and streams.
• Use electric lawn and garden equipment. Check if you are eligible to receive up to $200 to replace gasoline powered lawn equipment by visiting CleanAirMakeMore.com/lawn.
• Drive as little as possible: carpool, use public transit, or telecommute. For information on transportation alternatives, visit ShareTheRide.com.
• Reduce your time waiting in long drive-thru lines. For example, at coffee shops, fast-food restaurants, or banks. Park your vehicle and go inside.
• Fuel your vehicle after dark or during cooler evening hours.
• Use low-VOC (Volatile Organic Compounds) or water-based paints, stains, finishes, and paint strippers.
• Make sure containers of household cleaners, garage and yard chemicals, and other solvents are sealed properly to prevent vapors from evaporating into the air. 

Regulated Businesses

Businesses conducting dust-generating operations need to be vigilant of their dust control measures. Workers may need to cease operating, after stabilizing disturbed areas, if water application and other dust control measures prove ineffective.

Transportation Coordinators

Due to high levels of particulate matter, the Maricopa County Air Quality Department requests Transportation Coordinators encourage employee use of alternative modes of transportation.

Additional resources are allowing firefighting efforts to expand to the east on the Tunnel Fire 14 miles northeast of Flagstaff, while firefighters wait to see if established lines around many parts of the 21,087-acre fire hold up to today’s critical fire weather and strong winds.
 
Since the start of the fire, firefighting efforts have focused on protecting homes and property on the west side of the fire—namely Timberline Estates and Wupatki Trails subdivisions, as well as along Forest Road 420 (Schultz Pass Road).
 
Proving how challenging the weather and wind component is with this fire, last night at approximately 9 p.m. a spot fire began in Division Alpha in the area of 89 Mesa. Firefighters are working to contain the spot that is currently estimated at 100-150 acres.
 
With an increase in resources and arrival of the Type 1 Incident Management Team, firefighters will work to get a line around the entire fire. Firefighters will be working on constructing line near Black Mountain today, just east of O’Leary Peak and hand crews will begin constructing line in the Strawberry Crater Wilderness Area.
 
Though welcome rain fell this morning across many parts of the fire, strong winds forecast today and shifting winds out of the north and east forecast for Saturday and Sunday are still a major concern for fire managers. The fire is currently 21,087 acres and three percent contained. Fire managers are hesitant to call certain areas contained until these wind events pass.

The Coconino National Forest has instituted a Forest Closure Order for the area affected by the Tunnel Fire. U.S. Highway 89 is still closed from near milepost 425 (Campbell Road intersection) to 445, but officials are assessing conditions daily. The reopening of the highway is dependent on fire activity and closure allows quick and safe response for firefighters.
 
Current firefighting resources on scene include 371 firefighters, nine 20-person hand crews, five dozers, 30 engines, one air attack plane, two Type 1 helicopters, and one Type 3 helicopter.

Information about evacuations, structures that have been burned, and when people might be able to return is handled by Coconino County, which is posting updates online via their Coconino County Tunnel Fire page. The County has also established a Coconino County Tunnel Fire Call Center at 928-679-8525 that the public can call with questions. 
Coconino County Sheriff’s Office released a statement last night that an estimated 109 properties were impacted by the fire, including 30 residences that were burned and 24 properties with outbuildings destroyed.

All information regarding current firefighting efforts and the direction and activity of the fire is regularly updated on the Tunnel Fire Inciweb page at https://inciweb.nwcg.gov/incident/8068/
The media staging area has be relocated to the Old Caves trailhead parking lot on Silver Saddle Road, and media representatives can reach information officers by calling the MEDIA Line at 928-224-8306. Media representatives should leave a message for a return call.

Tunnel Fire Details:
Date reported: April 17, 2022
Cause: Under investigation.
Origin: 14 miles northeast of Flagstaff, Doney Park. (GPS: 35.304167, -111.588611)
Current size: 21,087 acres (decrease acreage due to more accurate mapping).
Percent contained: 3%
Structures lost: 30 residences burned and 24 properties with outbuildings destroyed.
Current resources: 371 firefighters, nine 20-person hand crews, five dozers, 30 engines, one air attack plane, two Type 1 helicopters, and one Type 3 helicopter.
Current closures: U.S. Highway 89 is closed from milepost 425 to 445. The closure is being assessed daily to see when the road can be safely opened. Coconino National Forest has instituted a Forest Closure Order for the area affected by the Tunnel Fire.
Evacuation & information: Please visit the Coconino County Emergency Management page for the Tunnel Fire at https://www.coconino.az.gov/2894/Tunnel-Fire . The Coconino County Tunnel Fire Call Center can be reached at 928-679-8525

Last night the fire remained active. Strong winds will continue to test fire lines.  The fire had minimal growth to the northeast and west of Senator Highway.  Large diameter dead and downed fuels continue to burn along the permitter and interior, increasing smoke which can be seen in the surrounding communities. 

With communities still being threatened by the fire, structure and point source protection remains a priority where it is safe for firefighters to engage.  Firefighters continue to build direct and indirect line construction in areas offering potential success of line holding.  Today’s wind will continue to test fire lines along the north east edge of the fire.    

During initial attack on Monday, April 21 two outbuilding were damaged.  Additional information will be released when property locations have been verified and owners notified. 

We would like to remind the communities that firefighter and public safety remain the number one objective.  We want to make sure your communities are safe before we allow anyone to return home.   

WEATHER: 
A passing weather system will bring cool and windy conditions.  Afternoon humidity is predicted to be 40%, light rain is possible.  The greatest hazard will be strong Southwest winds, with the potential for gusts to 40 mph near ridgetops and through aligned drainages.  Decreased wind is forecast for the weekend, along with a warming trend and decreased humidity.  

EVACUATIONS:  
Information about current evacuation status can be found on the Yavapai County Sheriff’s Department Facebook page at: https://www.facebook.com/YavapaiCountySheriff/

FOREST CLOSURE: 
To provide public health and safety due to firefighting operations and fire danger associated with the uncontrolled Crooks Fire the Prescott National Forest has implemented a fire area emergency closure.  To view the Crooks Fire area closure order and map visit: Prescott National Forest - Alerts & Notices (usda.gov)  

Fire Details:
Location: 10 miles south of Prescott-Bradshaw Ranger District (T12N, R2W, SEC 12), near Mt Union.
Start Date: April 18, 2022
Size: Approximately 2356 acres, 0% Containment
Cause: Under Investigation
Vegetation: Brush, Ponderosa Pine, and Mixed Conifer
Number of Personnel Assigned: 359
Resources Assigned:  
5 - Type 1 Hotshot crews, 2 - Type 2 Hand crews, 19 - Engines, 5 - Helicopters, Miscellaneous Equipment and Overhead. 
 

On Tuesday April 19, 2022 Sheriff Jim Driscoll ordered the “GO” evacuation of several
neighborhoods in the Timberline/Fernwood area north of Flagstaff along Highway 89. This was in
response to an active and fast-moving wildfire in the Coconino National Forest moving towards those neighborhoods.

As deputies were evacuating the area, the fire quickly moved into the vicinity, ultimately burning several properties, outbuildings, and residences. Deputies have conducted preliminary evaluations of the area and estimate approximately 109 properties were impacted by the fire, including 30 residences that were burned and 24 properties with outbuildings destroyed. At this point, all the owners of the residential structures have been notified of the loss. The fire moved extremely fast through this area due to the extreme weather conditions and high winds.

Since the “GO” order was given on Tuesday, the Coconino County Sheriff’s Office has been re-
evaluating the need for the evacuation on a constant and continual in coordination with the Tunnel Fire Incident Management Team. To this point, it has been deemed unsafe to allow residents back into the area due to active fire still in the Timberline neighborhood, open and harmful utilities, active firefighting efforts around the houses, and the fact that the neighborhoods are still in harm’s way.

This morning, CCSO met with the Tunnel Fire Incident Management Team to assess the need to keep the evacuation in place. Part of this assessment is based on weather forecasts for the next several days.

The National Weather Service has forecasted southwest winds of 20-25 miles per hour, gusting to 36 miles per hour tonight, southwest winds of 20-25 miles per hour with gusty and erratic winds of 40-50 miles per hour on Friday, northwest winds on Saturday, and North winds on Sunday.

Due to the forecasted change in wind direction, wind speeds and gusts, the observed fire behavior and the condition of the fire line protecting the neighborhoods, the CCSO is following the recommendations set forth by the Tunnel Fire Incident Management Team and keeping all “GO” evacuations in place for the next 72 hours (until Sunday morning, April 24). There is still a high level of danger in the “GO” evacuated areas and it is not prudent to open it to residents at this point. Safety of the community and the welfare of those who reside in and visit Coconino County remain the top priority.

As always, CCSO will maintain in continual contact with the Incident Management Team and if
conditions or forecasts change, this decision will be re-evaluated.

Deputies have been and will continue to provide escorts for residents who reside in the evacuated
neighborhoods. These escorts will be reserved to remove or feed animals and pick up emergency items.

Security of the evacuated areas are a priority for the Sheriff’s Office and there will be several deputies in the area patrolling. Those found in the area without lawful and legal reason will be held accountable.

Areas under the “GO” evacuation status are areas North of Campbell Road to the Sunset Crater Road (FS 545) east and west of Hwy 89. This includes the Timberline, Fernwood, Wutpatki Trails, Girls Ranch Road, Lenox Park, Sunset Crater Volcano National Monument, and the areas around Moon Crater. Areas under the “SET” evacuation status include Areas South of Campbell Road to Elden Springs Road east and west of Hwy 89, Antelope Hills, the areas north and east of Moon Crater to the Navajo Reservation. This includes Hutchison Acres, Anasazi Trails, and the north end of Doney Park.

If you are unsure about an evacuation notice or feel it maybe a scam, please contact your local law
enforcement agency to confirm the location of any Evacuation stage or Set stage areas, please call the non-emergency numbers for the Coconino County Sheriff’s Office (928) 774-4523 and Flagstaff Police Department (928) 774-4114 and report any suspicious calls.

If you receive what you believe to be a fraudulent call to evacuate or any other suspicious call, it is
important to provide as much information as possible when reporting this activity. This includes not only phone numbers from which calls are received but also names (even if names appear to be fake), email addresses, web domains, times/dates of contacts, etc.

For an interactive map and other Tunnel Fire and Evacuation information visit
www.coconino.az.gov/2894/Tunnel-Fire.

Helicopters aided in fire suppression efforts today on the 20,198-acre Tunnel Fire, while crews continued making progress dowsing hotspots along the fire’s western flank near Forest Road 420 (Schultz Pass Road) and around Timberline Estates and Wupatki Trail subdivisions.
 county
In addition, hand crews continued establishing handline on the southern edge of the fire east of the Pinnacle Peak 345KV powerline and on the north edge of the fire below and east of O’Leary Peak. They will continue looking for opportunities to extend these fire lines to the east.

“Even though we haven’t declared a percentage of containment on this fire yet, there has been a lot of work, progress, and investment on line construction around many parts of the Tunnel Fire,” said Deputy Incident Commander Shelby Erickson. “However, we won’t be declaring areas with line around them as ‘contained’ until we’re confident the line will hold during the forecasted high and shifting winds through the next few days.”

Windy conditions are expected to continue into Friday with a slight chance of moisture and higher humidity to accompany Friday’s winds. Saturday and Sunday, winds are forecasted to be up to 20 mph, but coming out of the northwest and northeast, that could potentially push embers out of the fire to the south and west.

The Coconino National Forest has instituted a Forest Closure Order for the area affected by the Tunnel Fire.
 
Current firefighting resources on scene include 371 firefighters, nine 20-person hand crews, five dozers, 30 engines, one air attack plane, two Type 1 helicopters, and one Type 3 helicopter. A Type 1 Incident Management Team began arriving today and will be supporting current fire suppression efforts into the future.
 
U.S. Highway 89 is still closed from near milepost 425 (Campbell Road intersection) to 445, but officials are assessing conditions daily and may reopen it before the weekend. These decisions will be based on weather conditions that drive fire activity and whether it is safe for motorists to travel this stretch of highway.
 
Information about evacuations, structures that have been burned, and when people might be able to return is handled by Coconino County, which is posting updates online via their Coconino County Tunnel Fire page. The County has also established a Coconino County Tunnel Fire Call Center at 928-679-8525 that the public can call with questions.
 
All information regarding current firefighting efforts and the direction and activity of the fire is regularly updated on the Tunnel Fire Inciweb page at https://inciweb.nwcg.gov/incident/8068/
 
The media staging area has be relocated to the Old Caves trailhead parking lot on Silver Saddle Road and media representatives can reach information officers by calling the media line at 928-224-8306.

Fire Details:
Date reported: April 17, 2022
Cause: Under investigation.
Origin: 14 miles northeast of Flagstaff, Doney Park. (GPS: 35.304167, -111.588611)
Current size: 20,198 acres (decrease acreage due to more accurate mapping).
Percent contained: 0%
Current resources: Approximately 371 firefighters, nine 20-person hand crews, five dozers, 30 engines, one air attack plane, two Type 1 helicopters, and one Type 3 helicopter.
Predicted smoke impacts: Smoke will impact the Doney Park area in the evening as temperatures drop and smoke drains. During afternoon hours, smoke will move toward the northeast.
Current closures: U.S. Highway 89 is closed from milepost 425 to 445. The closure is being assessed daily to see when the road can be safely opened. Coconino National Forest has instituted a Forest Closure Order for the area affected by the Tunnel Fire.
Evacuation & information: Please visit the Coconino County Emergency Management page for the Tunnel Fire at https://www.coconino.az.gov/2894/Tunnel-Fire . The Coconino County Tunnel Fire Call Center can be reached at 928-679-8525

This release serves as a correction to an earlier press release distributed at 11:13 a.m.

• NO changes have occurred as it relates to existing community evacuation status due to the Tunnel Fire at this time.
• Hwy 89 is closed both directions from Campbell Ave to Mile Post 434.5 until further notice. There is no change to the ‘Go’ area.

Check here for any evacuation information: https://coconinocounty.maps.arcgis.com/apps/MapSeries/index.html?appid=745e7806b0444387bf32792b9c25e169

Remember

• RED = READY
• YELLOW=SET
• GREEN=GO/EVACUATE

Shelters are as follows:

ANIMAL SHELTER:
Coconino Humane Society (928) 526-1076
3501 Butler Ave. Flagstaff, AZ, 86004

RESIDENT SHELTER:
Sinagua Middle School, (928) 527-5500
3950 E. Butler Ave. Flagstaff AZ, 86004

CALL CENTER: (928) 679-8525

BEHAVIORAL HEALTH: 1-877-756-4090

Residences, buildings, and watersheds that drain near them are currently the main emphasis for firefighters battling the now 20,511-acre Tunnel Fire 14 miles northeast of Flagstaff.  

Overnight crews continued cooling hotspots in the Timberline Estates and Wupatki Trail subdivisions, as well as worked to contain multiple spot fires on the fire’s western flank near Forest Road 420 (Schultz Pass Road). These efforts were instrumental in keeping the fire from burning up steep slopes toward Schultz Peak and may help to minimize post-fire flood impacts.

Crews will continue to work the western flank today as well as areas in and around the subdivisions in anticipation of a Red Flag wind event that is forecast to start at 11 a.m. Windy conditions are expected to continue into Friday, with a slight chance of moisture and higher humidity to accompany Friday’s winds. 

In addition, hand crews have completed handline on the southern edge of the fire nearly to the Pinnacle Peak 345KV powerline and on the north edge of the fire below O’Leary Peak. They will continue looking at opportunities to extend these fire lines to the east throughout the day.

Current firefighting resources on scene include 179 firefighters, four 20-person hand crews, four dozers, 21 engines, one air attack plane, one Type 3 helicopter, two Type 1 helicopters and additional air assets on order. A Pacific Northwest Type 1 Incident Management Team has been ordered and will begin arriving, with plans to fully transition operations Friday morning.

U.S. Highway 89 is still closed from near milepost 425 (Campbell Road intersection) to 445, but officials are assessing conditions daily and may reopen it before the weekend. These decisions will be based on weather conditions that drive fire activity and whether or not it is safe for motorists to travel this stretch of highway.

Information about evacuations, structures that have been burned, and when people might be able to return is handled by Coconino County, which is posting updates online via their Coconino County Tunnel Fire page. The County has also established a Coconino County Tunnel Fire Call Center at 928-679-8525 that the public can call with questions.

All information regarding current firefighting efforts and the direction and activity of the fire is regularly updated on the Tunnel Fire Inciweb page at https://inciweb.nwcg.gov/incident/8068/.

TUNNEL FIRE OVERVIEW

• Date reported: April 17, 2022
• Cause: Under investigation.
• Origin: 14 miles northeast of Flagstaff, Doney Park. (GPS: 35.304167, -111.588611)
• Current size: 20,511acres
• Percent contained: 0%
• Current resources: Approximately 179 firefighters, four twenty person hand crews, four dozers, 21 engines, one air attack plane, two Type 1 helicopters, and one Type 3 helicopter. A Type 1 Team has been ordered, as well as additional air assets, which will begin arriving throughout today and tomorrow.
• Predicted smoke impacts: Smoke will impact the Doney Park area in the evening as temperatures drop and smoke drains. During afternoon hours, smoke will move toward the northeast.
• Current closures: U.S. Highway 89 is closed from milepost 425 to 445. The closure is being assessed daily to see when the road can be safely opened.
• Evacuation & information: Please visit the Coconino County Emergency Management page for the Tunnel Fire at https://www.coconino.az.gov/2894/Tunnel-Fire . The Coconino County Tunnel Fire Call Center can be reached at 928-679-8525

Southern California Interagency Incident Management Team 4 assumed command of the Crooks Fires yesterday at 6:00 pm and quickly held a community meeting.  To view the recording of the Crooks Fire Community Meeting visit: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=gqsH4tAFh2E.  We would like to thank the community last night for the patience as we experienced technical difficulties. 

Increased fire activity and growth has resulted has firefighters implementing point protection where applicable and safe.  Structure assessment activities are progressing in the communities in the immediate fire area.  Spotting and fire spread to the west, north and northeast has resulted in firefighters identifying options ahead of the main fire, looking at roads and other natural features to limit fires spread with the use of containment lines.

The fire is burning in continuous thick, dry, dead, and down fuels in very rugged terrain.  Erratic winds and fire behavior is making conditions hazardous for firefighters.  Firefighter and public safety is the number one objective, firefighters are being directed to not put themselves in situations where the risks are high, and probability of success is low. The consistent message from leaders to firefighters is “Nothing is worth you getting hurt”.

WEATHER: 
Sunny, temperatures in the mid-60s, 22% humidity; winds southwest 15 to 20 mph with gusts to around 30 mph. 

EVACUATIONS:  
Information about current evacuation status can be found on the Yavapai County Sheriff’s Department Facebook page at: https://www.facebook.com/YavapaiCountySheriff/

FOREST CLOSURE: 
To provide public health and safety due to firefighting operations and fire danger
associated with the uncontrolled Crooks Fire the Prescott National Forest has implemented a fire area emergency closure.  To view the closure order and map visit: Prescott National Forest - Alerts & Notices (usda.gov)    

Fire Details:
Location: 10 miles of Prescott-Bradshaw Ranger District (T12N, R2W, SEC 12), near Mt Union.
Start Date: April 18, 2022
Size: Approximately 2000 acres
Percent Contained: 0%
Cause:  Under Investigation
Vegetation: Brush, Ponderosa Pine, and Mixed Conifer
Number of Personnel Assigned: 342
Resources Assigned:  
3-Type 2 Hand crews, 4-Type 1 Hotshot crews, 14-Engines, 5 – Helicopters, Miscellaneous Equipment and Overhead. 
 

The Tunnel Fire 14 miles northeast of Flagstaff grew an additional 3,087 acres Wednesday for a total of 19,712 acres of fire driven by strong winds across the landscape in a northeast direction.  
 
The Northern Arizona Type 3 Team is currently managing firefighting operations, and crews continued cooling hotspots and worked to keep fire outside of Timberline Estates and Wupatki Trail subdivisions. Crews encountered natural gas leaking from foundations, which added additional risk to suppression activities.
 
Firefighters had success on the western edge of the fire where they were able to limit extensive spreading, while a fire investigation team arrived today to begin investigating the fire origin and cause.
 
Forceful winds again limited the ability of air resources to support firefighting efforts, as strong up and downdrafts around the mountains kept aircraft from safely and effectively aiding in the firefight with retardant drops. Conditions are expected to become windier Thursday and Friday with gusts up to 50 mph in most of northern Arizona.
 
With the use of aircraft, it is imperative that private drones do not fly in and around the fire area. If a private drone is spotted in the area, all aircraft support will be grounded, which can be detrimental to firefighting efforts. Remember, if you fly, we can’t.
 
Current firefighting resources on scene include 260 firefighters, three dozers, 24 engines, one air attack plane, one Type 3 helicopter, and additional air assets on order. A Pacific Northwest Type 1 Incident Management Team has been ordered and will begin arriving Thursday, with plans to fully transition operations Friday morning.
 
U.S. Highway 89 is still closed from near milepost 425 (Campbell Road intersection) to 445 and will likely remain closed for the next several days due to firefighting operations.
 
Information about evacuations, structures that have been burned, and when people might be able to return is handled by Coconino County, which is posting updates online via their Coconino County Tunnel Fire page.
 
The Coconino County Sheriff’s Office is estimating approximately 25 structures have burned in the Tunnel Fire so far, and more information will become available as responders and firefighters are able to access neighborhoods get a true count as to how many and what type of structures have burned. The County has also established an Coconino County Tunnel Fire Call Center at 928-679-8525 for evacuees with additional questions.
 
All information regarding current firefighting efforts and the direction and activity of the fire is regularly updated on the Tunnel Fire Inciweb page at https://inciweb.nwcg.gov/incident/8068/

Tunnel Fire Details:
Date reported: April 17, 2022
Cause: Under investigation.
Origin: 14 miles northeast of Flagstaff, Doney Park. (GPS: 35.304167, -111.588611)
Current size: 19,712 acres
Percent contained: 0%
Current resources: Approximately 260 firefighters, three dozers, 24 engines, one air attack plane, and one Type 3 helicopter. A Type 1 Team has been ordered, as well as additional air assets.
Predicted smoke impacts: Smoke will impact the Doney Park area in the evening as temperatures drop and smoke drains. During afternoon hours, smoke will move toward the northeast.
Current closures: U.S. Highway 89 is closed from milepost 425 to 445. This highway will likely be closed for the next several days.
Evacuation & information: Please visit the Coconino County Emergency Management page for the Tunnel Fire at https://www.coconino.az.gov/2894/Tunnel-Fire . The Coconino County Tunnel Fire Call Center can be reached at 928-679-8525

The Tunnel Fire 14 miles northeast of Flagstaff grew to 16,625 acres overnight and is still zero percent contained, as strong winds propelled the flames northeast over U.S. Highway 89 toward Bonito Park and the Sunset Crater National Monument area.
 
The Northern Arizona Type 3 Team is currently managing firefighting operations. Crews worked overnight building line on the western side of the fire, as well as worked to secure the fire’s edge for structure protection in the Timberline and Wupatki Trails subdivisions. Hand crews and bulldozers will continue working today to secure the fire’s western flank and in the subdivisions, as well as try to keep the fire from spreading up the steep slopes of O’Leary Peak.

Current firefighting resources on scene include some 260 firefighters, three dozers, 24 engines, one air attack plane, and one Type 3 helicopter. The team has also ordered two Type 1 helicopters.
 
Two air tankers were ordered yesterday but grounded due to very strong winds that surpassed safety and effectiveness thresholds for dropping retardant. Operators hope to utilize the Type 3 helicopter today in firefighting efforts and structure protection, and those of the Type 1 helicopters if conditions allow. Breezy conditions are expected today, becoming windier Thursday and Friday with gusts up to 50 mph in most of northern Arizona. Windy conditions above a certain level make dropping retardant ineffective and unsafe.
 
With the use of aircraft, it is imperative that private drones do not fly in and around the fire area. If a private drone is spotted in the area, all aircraft support will be grounded, which can be detrimental to firefighting efforts. Remember, if you fly, we can’t.
 
A Pacific Northwest Type 1 Incident Management Team has been ordered and will begin arriving Thursday, with plans to fully transition operations Friday morning. A fire investigation team arrives today and will investigate the origin and cause of the Tunnel Fire.
 
A community meeting for those in the Doney Park area affected by the fire is scheduled this evening at 5:30 p.m. at Sinagua Middle School, 3950 E. Butler Avenue, Flagstaff, AZ 86004. The meeting will be live streamed online, with a link posted later today on the Tunnel Fire Inciweb page.
 
U.S. Highway 89 is still closed from milepost 425 (Silver Saddle Road intersection) to 435 and will likely remain closed for the next several days due to firefighting operations.
 
Information about evacuations, structures that have been burned, and when people might be able to return is handled by Coconino County, which is posting updates online via their Coconino County Tunnel Fire page.

The Coconino County Sheriff’s Office is estimating approximately 25 structures have burned in the Tunnel Fire so far, and more information will become available as responders and firefighters are able to access neighborhoods get a true count as to how many and what type of structures have burned. The County has also established an Emergency Call Center at 928-679-8525 for evacuees with additional questions.
 
All information regarding current firefighting efforts and the direction and activity of the fire is regularly updated on the Tunnel Fire Inciweb page at https://inciweb.nwcg.gov/incident/8068/.

TUNNEL FIRE OVERVIEW
Date reported: April 18, 2022
Cause: Under investigation.
Origin: 14 miles northeast of Flagstaff, Doney Park. (GPS: 35.304167, -111.588611)
Current size: 16,625 acres
Percent contained: 0%
Current resources: Approximately 260 firefighters, three dozers, 24 engines, one air attack plane, and one Type 3 helicopter. A Type 1 Team has been ordered, as well as two Type 1 helicopters.
Current closures: U.S. Highway 89 is closed from milepost 425 to 435 and will likely be closed for the next several days.
Evacuation information: Please visit the Coconino County Emergency Management page at www.coconino.az.gov/2894/Tunnel-Fire. The County Emergency Call Center can be reached at 928-679-8525.

A live virtual and in-person community meeting will be held tonight, Wednesday April 20, 2022, at 6:30 pm.  The virtual meeting will be held on the Prescott NF Facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/PrescottNF.  The in-person meeting will be held at Embry Riddle University in the Hanger, 3700 Willow Creek Dr, Prescott, Arizona.   

The Central Arizona West Zone Type 3 Incident Management assumed command of the Crooks Fire and quickly engaged the fire with full suppression tactics. Red flag conditions in rugged terrain challenged firefighters’ and grounded aircraft through the day. Fire activity increased as wind moved the fire west of Senator Highway and to the north-northeast towards Potato Patch, Walker and Breezy.  Structure assessment activities are progressing in the communities of Potato Patch, Walker and Breezy Pines.  Crews continue to look for opportunity to construct indirect line in hopes to keep the fire south of FSR 261 and progressing to the north.  

Due to the increased complexity and values at risk on the Crooks Fire, Southern California Interagency Incident Management T4 will be arriving today and assume command of the fire at 6:00 pm.  

Resources Assigned:  2-Type 2 Hand crews, 5-Type 1 Hotshot crews, 14-Engines, 5 – Helicopters, and Miscellaneous Overhead.   

WEATHER:  
Breezy southwest winds at 10-15 MPH with afternoon humidity in the teens will bring near critical fire weather conditions.   

EVACUATIONS:  
Information about current evacuation status can be found on the Yavapai County Sheriff’s Department Facebook page at: https://www.facebook.com/YavapaiCountySheriff/ 

FOREST CLOSURE: 
To provide public health and safety due to firefighting operations and fire danger associated with the uncontrolled Crooks Fire the Prescott National Forest has implemented a forest closure.  To view the closure order and map visit: Prescott National Forest - Alerts & Notices (usda.gov)     
   
Fire Details:
Location: 10 miles of Prescott-Bradshaw Ranger District (T12N, R2W, SEC 12), near Mt Union. 
Start Date: April 18, 2022 
Size: Approximately 1600 acres  
Percent Contained: 0% 
Cause: Under Investigation 
Vegetation: Brush, Ponderosa Pine, and Mixed Conifer 

Information Resources:
Fire Information: 928-925-1111    
Hours: 8 a.m. - 7 p.m. 
Email: [email protected] 
Inciweb:  https://inciweb.nwcg.gov/incident/8067/ 
Prescott NF Facebook:  https://www.facebook.com/PrescottNF 
Prescott NF Twitter: https://twitter.com/PrescottNF

On April 19th, 2022, at 1100 hours the Coconino County Sheriff’s Office began evacuation operations in the Timberline – Fernwood areas north of Flagstaff along Hwy 89.

The  Coconino County Sheriff’s Office was advised by the United States Forest Service at approximately 8:00 am that the Tunnel Fire had jumped the fire line and was threatening the Timberline – Fernwood Area. The Sheriff’s Office began preparation in anticipation of a “GO” order from the Forest Service.

At approximately 11:00 am a “GO “order was given, and evacuations began. Over 200 hundred homes are threatened at this time. Closure areas are East side of 89 is Campbell rd. to Sunset Crater, West side of the 89 is Summit Fire Station #33 to Sunset Crater.

A shelter is set up at Sinagua Middle School for those effected by the evacuations. The Coconino
Humane Society is available for evacuated large and small animals. We will update as information is made available.

If you are unsure about an evacuation notice or feel it maybe a scam, please contact your local law
enforcement agency to confirm the location of any Evacuation stage or Set stage areas, please call the non-emergency numbers for the Coconino County Sheriff’s Office (928) 774-4523 and Flagstaff Police Department (928) 774-4114 and report any suspicious calls.

If you receive what you believe to be a fraudulent call to evacuate or any other suspicious call, it is
important to provide as much information as possible when reporting this activity. This includes not only phone numbers from which calls are received but also names (even if names appear to be fake), email addresses, web domains, times/dates of contacts, etc.