Arizona Emergency Information Network

Firefighters held the perimeter on both fires yesterday in anticipation of increased winds. On the West Fire, some ignitions were conducted on top of the Rim to encourage beneficial moderate fire intensity above Camp Geronimo and to increase the amount of area burned in the northeast corner of the perimeter. A helicopter dropped water buckets to keep the fire off the bottom of the eastern slope of West Webber Creek. This holding action was to prevent fire from running up to the top of that side of the drainage with higher intensity. A small amount of fire crossed the planned perimeter on the Rim Road, but crews quickly responded, and it is not expected to be a concern. On the Preacher Fire, crews secured and mopped up the perimeter. The interior of the fire area continued to burn. Higher winds did cause a small amount of fire to escape the planned perimeter near Wildcat Springs, but firefighters quickly built containment line around it and cooled it down with water from a helicopter. These same winds are expected to reduce smoke around Tonto Village and transport it further away from communities.

Today will be another day of firefighters holding the perimeter due to the anticipated increased winds. The need for ignitions will be continually assessed on the West Fire to moderate fire behavior and encourage slow burning of hazardous fuels, especially on the northeast corner. Across the rest of the perimeter crews and equipment are improving the existing fire lines. The structure protection group is testing watering systems that are in place. On the Preacher Fire, the ignitions are complete. Crews will continue to secure and mop up the perimeter. Engines will patrol the perimeter and stay vigilant. Residents may see a smoke column as the interior pockets of fuel continue to burn.  

Weather: Winds will increase for Thursday out of the southwest. Expect frequent afternoon gusts between 25 and 35 mph, with highest along the Mogollon Rim. High temperatures on Thursday will be in the mid-70s to low 80s. Minimum relative humidity will be down around 20 percent.

Safety: Two Temporary Flight Restrictions (TFR) are now in place over the area, which includes uncrewed aircraft systems or drones. The public is reminded, if you fly we can’t; unauthorized drone flights pose serious risks to firefighter and public safety and the effectiveness of wildfire suppression operations.

Closure:  The Tonto National Forest has issued a closure for land surrounding the West Fire, this includes Pine Trailhead. https://inciweb.wildfire.gov/incident-publication/aztnf-2024-west-fire-tnf/us-forest-service-closure-order-for-west-fire-09-04...

Evacuations: Some residents east of Payson near the Preacher Fire have been moved to SET status and Geronimo Estates residents near the West Fire have also been placed in SET status. An interactive map is available to stay up to date with evacuation levels related to both the West and Preacher Fires: https://nifc.maps.arcgis.com/apps/instant/sidebar/index.html?appid=9bf2ca222ee74f8697bc670ae9c2531a  

To receive emergency notifications from Gila County go to: https://ein.az.gov/ready-set-go

Smoke: During ignitions, smoke may settle in low-lying areas overnight. Residents are encouraged to close windows at night to avoid smoke impacts. Talk with your doctor and plan for how to manage your health conditions when it is smoky. Additional resources for how to prepare for wildfire smoke can be found at https://www.airnow.gov/wildfire-guide-factsheets/ 

For the latest news and information about the Tonto National Forest, follow along on Facebook @TontoNationalForest, ‘X’ (formerly Twitter) @TontoForest or Instagram @tontonationalforest and on the Tonto National Forest website: https://www.fs.usda.gov/tonto

 Fire details:
West Fire - 1782 Acres
Preacher Fire - 3161 Acres
Start Date: August 28, 2024
Location: Payson Ranger District, AZ
Personnel: 481  
Cause: Lightning
Containment: 0%
Fuels: Ponderosa Pine, Mixed Conifer, Chaparral

Fire information:     
Phone Number: (928)-291-7354 (7 a-7 p) 
Inciweb: https://inciweb.wildfire.gov/incident-information/aztnf-2024-west-fire-tnf  
Email: [email protected]

Residents noticed increased smoke from both the West and Preacher Fires yesterday due to the increase in ignitions. On the Preacher Fire, crews were able to ignite within the entire planned perimeter. They were assisted by a helicopter with ignition capabilities that added additional fire to the interior. Everything held within the planned perimeter and crews continued patrolling and mopping up the edge of the perimeter as needed throughout the night. On the West Fire, firefighters continued igniting the northeast corner of the planned area ahead of the anticipated winds. They were able to bring fire across the Rim to the top of Bray Creek and hold everything. Helicopters with water buckets assisted in keeping the fire in place on the fire’s western edge. This is part of the strategy to ignite the West Fire area in sections to reduce smoke impacts to communities and improve fire benefits to the ecosystem.

Today, crews and engines will focus on holding the perimeter across the Preacher Fire. In any areas where it is needed, firefighters will secure and mop up. On the West Fire, firefighters will secure, mop up and hold the perimeter on the northeast corner. Crews are also adding protection to water lines and spring boxes above Camp Geronimo. Across the rest of the West Fire, they are improving the perimeter lines and testing structure protection watering systems. With the anticipated increased winds, there likely will not be additional ignitions today. However, fire managers will reassess throughout the day.

Weather: Winds will increase for Wednesday and Thursday out of the southwest. Expect frequent afternoon gusts to 25 mph on Wednesday and gusts up to 30-35 mph on Thursday. Wednesday will feature a sunny sky with near-normal high temperatures in the upper 70s to mid 80s. Minimum relative humidity values will range between 15 and 22 percent. Sunny again on Thursday but not quite as warm. High temperatures are forecasted to be in the mid 70s to low 80s.

Safety: Two Temporary Flight Restrictions (TFR) are now in place over the area, which includes uncrewed aircraft systems or drones. The public is reminded, if you fly we can’t; unauthorized drone flights pose serious risks to firefighter and public safety and the effectiveness of wildfire suppression operations.

Closure:  The Tonto National Forest has issued a closure for land surrounding the West Fire, this includes Pine Trailhead. https://inciweb.wildfire.gov/incident-publication/aztnf-2024-west-fire-tnf/us-forest-service-closure-order-for-west-fire-09-04-2024

Evacuations: Some residents east of Payson near the Preacher Fire have been moved to SET status and Geronimo Estates residents near the West Fire have also been placed in SET status. An interactive map is available to stay up to date with evacuation levels related to both the West and Preacher Fires: https://nifc.maps.arcgis.com/apps/instant/sidebar/index.html?appid=9bf2ca222ee74f8697bc670ae9c2531a  

To receive emergency notifications from Gila County go to: https://ein.az.gov/ready-set-go

Smoke: During ignitions, smoke may settle in low-lying areas overnight. Residents are encouraged to close windows at night to avoid smoke impacts. Talk with your doctor and plan for how to manage your health conditions when it is smoky. Additional resources for how to prepare for wildfire smoke can be found at https://www.airnow.gov/wildfire-guide-factsheets/ 

For the latest news and information about the Tonto National Forest, follow along on Facebook @TontoNationalForest, ‘X’ (formerly Twitter) @TontoForest or Instagram @tontonationalforest and on the Tonto National Forest website: https://www.fs.usda.gov/tonto

Fire details:
West Fire - 716 Acres
Preacher Fire - 1011 Acres
Start Date: August 28, 2024
Location: Payson Ranger District, AZ
Personnel: 491
Cause: Lightning
Containment: 0%
Fuels: Ponderosa Pine, Mixed Conifer, Chaparral          

Information resources:

Phone Number: (928)-291-7354 (7 a-7 p) 

Inciweb: https://inciweb.wildfire.gov/incident-information/aztnf-2024-west-fire-tnf

Email: [email protected]

Fire managers and district rangers on the Apache- Sitgreaves National Forests are looking for appropriate conditions to continue to conduct prescribed fires during the Fall months. The timing for our Fall prescribed fires to be safely implemented is September through December.

Crews are assessing current weather conditions to make determinations on whether they are appropriate for prescribed fire activity. Individual news releases for each prescribed fire will be distributed in advance, and as fire managers and district rangers narrow down the date for ignitions for each prescribed fire based upon onsite conditions. 

The list of potential projects follows:

Alpine Ranger District

• Wallow West 6B-C RX (3,728 acres) – 5 miles south of Big Lake
• Loco Knoll RX (3,300 acres) – 6 miles east of Nutrioso

Black Mesa Ranger District

• Brookbank RX (3,647 acres) – 10 miles west of Heber-Overgaard, north side of Hwy 260
• Rim Top RX (1,286 acres) – south side of Wood Canyon Lake
• Point RX (814 acres) – 1 mile northwest of Forest Lakes
• Sinkhole RX (875 acres) – south side of Willow Springs Lake, north side of Hwy 260
• Dutch RX (1,301 acres) – 6 miles west of Chevelon Canyon Lake, south and east side of Dutch Joe Ranch

Clifton Ranger District

• EEMS Phase 1 Block A RX (2,506 acres) – 8 miles southwest of Blue Vista Overlook

Lakeside Ranger District

• Bear RX (973 acres) – 2 miles south of Pinedale
• 260 RX (696 acres) – 1 mile west of Linden, south side of Hwy 260
• Ortega RX (1,773 acres) – 1 mile southwest of Vernon
• Doyle RX (290 acres) - 1 mile southwest of Vernon
• Brown Creek RX (1,725 acres) – 3 miles southwest of Vernon

Springerville Ranger District

• Wallow West 6A RX (3,951 acres) – west of Big Lake
• Wallow West 6B RX (3,139 acres) – 2 miles southwest of Big Lake
• Atascacita RX (1,662 acres) – 4 miles north of Green Peak

Escalating wildfire danger is threatening millions of acres and numerous communities across the United States. To address this problem, the 10-year Wildfire Crisis Strategy was initiated in 2022 to treat up to an additional 20 million acres of National Forest System lands and an additional 30 million acres of other federal, state, tribal, and private lands. Two of the initial Wildfire Crisis Strategy landscapes, the San Carlos Apache Tribal Forest Protection Act and the Four Forest Restoration Initiative, are on the Apache-Sitgreaves National Forests. Our land management strategy is centered on long-term forest health, including reducing forest fuels and using prescribed fire on the landscape.

All prescribed fires planned and implemented on the Apache-Sitgreaves National Forests will incorporate the guidance in the Forest Service Chief’s National Prescribed Fire Program Review, including using the most recent science and modeling, ensuring contingency resources are more readily available, integrating drought monitoring, increasing patrols, and completing a daily go/ no-go evaluation of conditions. A final decision on whether to proceed with a specific prescribed fire will depend on agency administrator approval, resource availability, fuel moisture levels, air quality and forecast weather. Prescribed fires are designed to meet specific objectives and are always managed with firefighter and public safety as the priority.

Prescribed fires are an effective tool for restoring fire-dependent ecosystems and reducing the risk of high-severity wildfires. Fire managers use prescribed fire to improve forest health, remove hazardous fuels, increase firefighter safety, enhance wildlife habitat, and protect communities and watersheds.

Air quality information is available at www.airnow.gov/

Further information will be provided as it becomes available. Visit the Apache-Sitgreaves National Forests website at www.fs.usda.gov/asnf, and follow us on Facebook www.facebook.com/apachesitgreavesnfs

Yesterday conditions were favorable for burning. On the West Fire, firefighters worked east on Milk Ranch Road from the Webber Creek drainage adding fire inside the containment lines to consume the buildup of fuels. They also used UAS and a helicopter with ignition capabilities for efficiency and safety in the challenging terrain of East Webber Creek. On the Preacher Fire, firefighters were able to add fire along the Control Road south of Tonto Village all the way down to the powerlines. They also worked igniting off Diamond Point Road near the Diamond Point Summer Homes southwest to the natural fire’s edge. The interior was ignited by a helicopter. On both fires, the fire behavior continues to be moderate which is helping restore the ecosystem and consuming fuels that otherwise may threaten communities in the future.

Today, firefighters will continue with ignitions on both fires. On the West Fire, the goal is to establish fire across the northwest corner of the planned perimeter before proceeding to ignite additional areas. This ignition pattern is designed to moderate fire intensity as they move east with fire, given the predicted winds out of the southwest. Engines are continually testing watering systems around Bray Creek Ranch, Camp Geronimo and Geronimo Estates to be ready if needed. They are also improving the hand line and dozer line east of Pine and masticating fuels along the Control Road from Bray Creek Road to SR 87. On the Preacher Fire, ignitions will continue down the powerline on the southern side of the planned perimeter and south towards Diamond Point on the northern side of the planned area. Engines will patrol the perimeters and staff watering systems around structures through the night.

Weather: An isolated shower or thunderstorm may develop on the Mogollon Rim Tuesday afternoon but is not expected to reach the West fire. Otherwise, Tuesday will be seasonably warm and dry with light winds. Southwest winds are forecast to increase by Wednesday and Thursday, with frequent afternoon gusts to 25 mph on Wednesday and even up to 30-35 mph on Thursday.

Safety: Two Temporary Flight Restrictions (TFR) are now in place over the area, which includes uncrewed aircraft systems or drones. The public is reminded, if you fly we can’t; unauthorized drone flights pose serious risks to firefighter and public safety and the effectiveness of wildfire suppression operations.

Closure:  The Tonto National Forest has issued a closure for land surrounding the West Fire, this includes Pine Trailhead. https://inciweb.wildfire.gov/incident-publication/aztnf-2024-west-fire-tnf/us-forest-service-closure-order-for-west-fire-09-04...

Evacuations: Some residents east of Payson near the Preacher Fire have been moved to SET status, additionally yesterday, Geronimo Estates have also been placed in SET status. An interactive map is available to stay up to date with evacuation levels related to both the West and Preacher Fires. https://nifc.maps.arcgis.com/apps/instant/sidebar/index.html?appid=9bf2ca222ee74f8697bc670ae9c2531a  

To receive emergency notifications from Gila County go to: https://ein.az.gov/ready-set-go

Smoke: During ignitions, smoke may settle in low-lying areas overnight. Residents are encouraged to close windows at night to avoid smoke impacts. Talk with your doctor and plan for how to manage your health conditions when it is smoky. Additional resources for how to prepare for wildfire smoke can be found at https://www.airnow.gov/wildfire-guide-factsheets/ 

For the latest news and information about the Tonto National Forest, follow along on Facebook @TontoNationalForest, ‘X’ (formerly Twitter) @TontoForest or Instagram @tontonationalforest and on the Tonto National Forest website: https://www.fs.usda.gov/tonto
     
Fire details:
West Fire - 174 Acres
Preacher Fire - 15 Acres
Start Date: August 28, 2024
Location: Payson Ranger District, AZ
Personnel: 472
Cause: Lightning
Personnel: 445
Containment: 0%
Fuels: Ponderosa Pine, Mixed Conifer, Chaparral          

Information resources:

• Phone Number: (928)-291-7354 (7 a-7 p) 
• Inciweb: https://inciweb.wildfire.gov/incident-information/aztnf-2024-west-fire-tnf
• Email: [email protected]

Ignitions began yesterday on both the West and Preacher Fires. On the West Fire, south-facing slopes and areas exposed to sun and wind were receptive to ignitions, which began in the West Webber Creek drainage. Mastication of fuels along the Control Road just north of Geronimo Estates continued. On Preacher, the Control Road near Tonto Village was still not dry enough to carry fire, so crews began lighting from the active fire’s edge along the Diamond Point Road and headed south towards Diamond Point. Engines worked across all the communities to finish installing hoses and testing them as part of the structure protection plan.

Today on the West Fire, aerial and hand ignitions will continue where they left off yesterday in East Webber Creek Drainage and begin on the top of the Rim off the 300 road. On Preacher, the area south of Tonto Village will be reassessed for ignitions. If it still isn’t dry enough, crews will move back over to the Diamond Point Road to pick up where they left off yesterday.

Across the rest of the area on both fires crews, engines and equipment are improving containment lines, testing structure protection equipment like hoses and sprinklers and removing any remaining fuels necessary. A night shift is patrolling in communities to ensure private property and structures are protected around the clock. 

Weather: A few showers may develop on the Mogollon Rim Monday afternoon but are not expected to reach the Preacher fire. Otherwise, the week will be seasonably warm, dry and rain-free. Southwest winds will increase by mid-week with frequent afternoon gusts over 25 mph.

Safety: Two Temporary Flight Restrictions (TFR) are now in place over the area, which includes uncrewed aircraft systems or drones. Reminder that if you fly we can’t, unauthorized drone flights pose serious risks to firefighter and public safety and the effectiveness of wildfire suppression operations.

Closure:  The Tonto National Forest has issued a closure for land surrounding the West Fire, this includes Pine Trailhead. https://inciweb.wildfire.gov/incident-publication/aztnf-2024-west-fire-tnf/us-forest-service-closure-order-for-west-fire-09-04-2024

Evacuations: Some residents east of Payson near the Preacher Fire have been moved to the SET level. An interactive map is available to stay up to date with evacuation levels related to both the West and Preacher Fires.

https://nifc.maps.arcgis.com/apps/instant/sidebar/index.html?appid=9bf2ca222ee74f8697bc670ae9c2531a

Smoke: During ignitions, smoke may settle in low-lying areas overnight. Residents are encouraged to close windows at night to avoid smoke impacts. Talk with your doctor and plan for how to manage your health conditions when it is smoky. Additional resources for how to prepare for wildfire smoke can be found at https://www.airnow.gov/wildfire-guide-factsheets/ 

For the latest news and information about the Tonto National Forest, follow along on Facebook @TontoNationalForest, ‘X’ (formerly Twitter) @TontoForest or Instagram @tontonationalforest and on the Tonto National Forest website: https://www.fs.usda.gov/tonto

Fire details
West Fire - 138 Acres
Preacher Fire - 15 Acres
Start Date: August 28, 2024
Location: Payson Ranger District, AZ
Personnel: 446
Cause: Lightning
Containment: 0%
Fuels: Ponderosa Pine, Mixed Conifer, Chaparral

Fire information:     
Phone Number: (928)-291-7354 (7 a-7 p) 
Inciweb: https://inciweb.wildfire.gov/incident-information/aztnf-2024-west-fire-tnf 
Email: [email protected]

Yesterday firefighters put the finishing touches on the prep work around Preacher Fire. On the West Fire, the remaining work removing fuels on Milk Ranch Road, finalizing structure protection plans in Camp Geronimo and completing dozer line east of Pine remained the focus.

Despite the moisture, fire managers plan to test ignitions today. Winds predominately out of the southwest over the next several days provide a good opportunity to begin. With ignitions beginning, residents should expect to see increased smoke production from both fires starting mid-day. Southwest winds should carry much of the smoke away from the most populated areas during the day, although smoke may still settle into drainages at night.

On the West Fire, ignitions are planned to begin on the northeast corner of the planned fire perimeter then working south to Bray Creek Ranch and west along Milk Ranch Road, firefighters will allow fire to slowly burn down from the tops of drainages using both hand and aerial ignitions. This methodical firing technique is designed to create lower intensity fire that removes fuel while minimizing smoke impacts and impacts to the watershed. The entire firing operation is expected to take about a week due to the number of drainages.

On the Preacher Fire, ignitions will start along the Control Road near Tonto Village. Firefighters will then work around to the Diamond Point Road bringing fire towards the southwest as they go. The ignitions are expected to take about two days. While decent smoke dispersion is expected, there may be smoke impacts to State Highway 260, especially in the evenings and mornings.

Due to the ignitions, additional firefighters will begin night shift on both fires tonight. Engines will patrol, mop up and provide structure protection until they are relieved by day-shift resources. The 24-hour coverage is an extra precaution. 

Weather: Isolated to scattered thunderstorms will return Sunday afternoon, with mostly clear and rain-free weather expected the rest of next week. Southwesterly winds will increase Wednesday and Thursday with frequent afternoon gusts over 25 mph.

Safety: Two Temporary Flight Restrictions (TFR) are now in place over the area, which includes uncrewed aircraft systems or drones. Reminder that if you fly we can’t, unauthorized drone flights pose serious risks to firefighter and public safety and the effectiveness of wildfire suppression operations.

Closure:  The Tonto National Forest has issued a closure for land surrounding the West Fire, this includes Pine Trailhead. https://inciweb.wildfire.gov/incident-publication/aztnf-2024-west-fire-tnf/us-forest-service-closure-order-for-west-fire-09-04...

Evacuations: Some residents east of Payson near the Preacher Fire have been moved to the SET level. An interactive map is available to stay up to date with evacuation levels related to both the West and Preacher Fires. https://nifc.maps.arcgis.com/.../sidebar/index.html

Smoke: During ignitions, smoke may settle in low-lying areas overnight. Residents are encouraged to close windows at night to avoid smoke impacts. Talk with your doctor and plan for how to manage your health conditions when it is smoky. Additional resources for how to prepare for wildfire smoke can be found at https://www.airnow.gov/wildfire-guide-factsheets/

For the latest news and information about the Tonto National Forest, follow along on Facebook @TontoNationalForest, ‘X’ (formerly Twitter) @TontoForest or Instagram @tontonationalforest and on the Tonto National Forest website: https://www.fs.usda.gov/tonto

Fire details
West Fire - 46 Acres
Preacher Fire - 3 Acres
Start Date: August 28, 2024
Location: Payson Ranger District, AZ
Personnel: 464
Cause: Lightning
Containment: 0%
Fuels: Ponderosa Pine, Mixed Conifer, Chaparral

Fire information:     
Phone Number: (928)-291-7354 (7 a-7 p) 
Inciweb: https://inciweb.wildfire.gov/incident-information/aztnf-2024-west-fire-tnf  
Email: [email protected]
 

Preparation of firelines on both fires is nearly complete. The safest, most effective and ecologically beneficial way to contain these fires is by using ignitions. Using fire to reduce overgrown forests will also provide future protection from wildfires that may be more difficult to suppress. Aerial and hand ignitions are expected to begin on Sunday, Sept. 8 for both the West and Preacher fires. Ignitions will happen in a strategic way to reduce smoke impacts, ease the fire to the containment lines and achieve desirable ecological outcomes. On the West Fire, ignitions are anticipated to take seven days across approximately 16,700 acres. The Preacher Fire ignitions are likely to take two days across 3,200 acres. Firefighters holding the containment lines will begin mop up right away. This will decrease unnaturally high accumulations of fuels and the potential for future fires to burn with unnaturally high severity, aligning with the Forest Service Wildfire Crisis Strategy: https://www.fs.usda.gov/managing-land/wildfire-crisis.

When ignitions begin, residents will see more smoke. Fire managers have been working closely with meteorologists and smoke experts from the Forest Service and AZ DEQ to determine the best time to begin ignitions. Beginning Monday a detailed smoke outlook will be available to the public. During ignitions, smoke may settle in low-lying areas overnight. Residents are encouraged to close windows at night to avoid smoke impacts. Talk with your doctor and plan for how to manage your health conditions when it is smoky. Additional resources for how to prepare for wildfire smoke can be found at https://www.airnow.gov/wildfire-guide-factsheets/

Once ignitions begin, the Incident Management Team will staff a night shift to patrol the fire and implement the structure protection plans both day and night. After closely coordinating with the Gila County Sheriffs Office and local emergency management, fire managers do not anticipate the need for evacuations of residents, however residents may be placed into an elevated “ready” or “set” status.
 
Weather: Shower and thunderstorm chances will increase slightly Saturday afternoon and decrease on Sunday afternoon. Wetting rainfall is unlikely. Temperatures will gradually increase early next week and wind speeds will increase by mid-week.

Safety: With the weekend upon us, we want to remind locals and visitors to use caution with the additional fire traffic in and around the communities of Payson, Pine, Strawberry, Tonto Village, Star Valley, and Whispering Pines.

Closure:  The Tonto National Forest has issued a closure for land surrounding the West Fire:  https://inciweb.wildfire.gov/incident-publication/aztnf-2024-west-fire-tnf/us-forest-service-closure-order-for-west-fire-09-04...

Smoke: Smoke from the West and Preacher Fires may be visible in the surrounding areas for many days. Smoke will be heavier in the mornings as it settles into the lower elevations and will lift as temperatures increase. As temperatures increase the volume of smoke may increase due to the drying and ignition of available fuels. Smoke-sensitive individuals and people with respiratory problems or heart disease are encouraged to take precautionary measures. Learn more about smoke impacts on the. https://azdeq.gov/wildfire-faqs

For the latest news and information about the Tonto National Forest, follow along on Facebook @TontoNationalForest, ‘X’ (formerly Twitter) @TontoForest or Instagram @tontonationalforest and on the Tonto National Forest website: https://www.fs.usda.gov/tonto

Fire details:
West Fire - 30 Acres                                                                 
Preacher Fire - 3 Acres
Start Date: August 28, 2024
Location: Payson Ranger District, AZ                     
Personnel: 427
Cause: Lightning
Containment: 0%
Fuels: Ponderosa Pine, Mixed Conifer, Chaparral

Fire information:
Phone Number: (928)-291-7354 (7 a-7 p)
Inciweb: https://inciweb.wildfire.gov/incident-information/aztnf-2024-west-fire-tnf  
Email: [email protected]

The Tonto National Forest and SW Area Incident Management Team will be holding a public meeting on Friday, September 6, 2024 at 6 p.m. at the Pine Community Center 3872 AZ-87, Pine, AZ, 85544. The public meeting will be in person and streamed through the Tonto National Forest Facebook page: @TontoNationalForest. If by chance we run into problems streaming, the meeting will be recorded and uploaded to view later. 

Operations:

West Fire - 28 Acres: Removal of fuels along Milk Ranch Road continues to be the focus of the work. Today masticators will continue preparing this road to be defensible and hold the fire within the identified containment area. Additional engines and crews are removing dead trees along roads to prevent them from catching fire or falling onto roads. A crew is also constructing firelines from Bray Creek Ranch north to the Rim. In Camp Geronimo vegetation is being cut back from roads and structures are being prepared with hose and sprinklers. Dozers and equipment will continue improving existing fuel breaks just west of Pine.

Preacher Fire - 3 Acre: Yesterday, crews finished preparing firelines north of the fire. The southern lines are nearly complete. Crews from the northside of the Preacher Fire will relocate to the southern side to help accomplish the remaining preparation. Engines continue to patrol the lines.

Both fires are being managed under a confine/contain strategy with the goal of reintroducing fire into a fire dependent ecosystem. The intended result of managing naturally caused fires are to reduce hazardous fuels, encourage the growth of native forage, improve range conditions, increase species diversity, protect and improve wildlife habitat, improve watershed conditions and restore ecological balance. The total planning areas for the West Fire includes 16,700 acres, for Preacher Fire 3,200 acres. This will decrease unnaturally high accumulations of fuels and the potential for future fires to burn with unnaturally high severity, aligning with the Forest Service Wildfire Crisis Strategy: https://www.fs.usda.gov/managing-land/wildfire-crisis.

Weather: Sunny and hot conditions persist with temperatures in the middle to upper 80’s. The relative humidity has fallen to around 20% and the wind is terrain driven at speeds less than 10 mph with gusts to 15 mph. The overall weather pattern will not change through the end of the week with hot and dry conditions. Low shower and thunderstorm chances are anticipated to return to the region on the weekend.
Safety: With the weekend upon us, we want to remind local and visitors to use caution with the additional fire traffic in and around the communities of Payson, Pine, Strawberry, Tonto Village, Star Valley, and Whispering Pines.

Closure:  The Tonto National Forest has issued a closure for land surrounding the West Fire. https://inciweb.wildfire.gov/incident-publication/aztnf-2024-west-fire-tnf/us-forest-service-closure-order-for-west-fire-09-04-2024

Smoke: Smoke from the West and Preacher Fires may be visible in the surrounding areas for many days. Smoke will be heavier in the mornings as it settles into the lower elevations and will lift as temperatures increase. As temperatures increase the volume of smoke may increase due to the drying and ignition of available fuels. Smoke-sensitive individuals and people with respiratory problems or heart disease are encouraged to take precautionary measures. Learn more about smoke impacts on the. https://azdeq.gov/wildfire-faqs 

Fire details:

• Start Date: August 28, 2024
• Location: Payson Ranger District, AZ
• Personnel: 340
• Containment: 0%
• Cause: Lightning
• Fuels: Tall Grass and Brush

Important fire information:

• Phone Number: (928)-291-7354 (7 am-7 pm)

• Media Phone Number: (928)-291-6528 (7am -7pm)

• Email: [email protected]

• Inciweb: https://inciweb.wildfire.gov/incident-information/aztnf-2024-west-fire-tnf  

For the latest news and information about the Tonto National Forest, follow along on Facebook @TontoNationalForest, ‘X’ (formerly Twitter) @TontoForest or Instagram @tontonationalforest and on the Tonto National Forest website: https://www.fs.usda.gov/tonto

On August 30, 2024, resources from Prescott National Forest responded to a reported wildfire south of Prescott in the Cellar Creek area. The lightning-caused Cellar 2 Fire is burning in brush and grass in the Cellar Fire burn scar and is currently estimated to be at 175 acres.

Due to the location and terrain, the decision was made to suppress the fire by using a full suppression strategy with a variety of tactics that will allow for firefighter and public safety while keeping the fire within a containment perimeter and allowing fire to play a natural role in the fire-dependent ecosystem. Firefighters have spent the last several shifts preparing roads around the fire for burnout operations to commence as soon as this morning. There are no values at risk or threatened at this time.

“We would like to ask the public to avoid the fire area which will allow fire personnel and equipment to successfully implement suppression operations,” said Chino Valley Deputy District Ranger John Kava.

Resources assigned include 3 engines, one water tender, one suppression module, and one dozer.

Smoke will be visible from the Wagoner, Skull Valley, Kirkland, and Wilhoit areas. View an interactive smoke map at https://fire.airnow.gov/. Learn more about smoke impacts on the Arizona Department of Environmental Quality website.

For information please call the Prescott NF fire information line at 928-925-1111 or following us on Facebook and Twitter.

The Tonto National Forest and SW Area Incident Management Team will be holding a public meeting on Friday, September 6, 2024 at 6 p.m. at the Pine Community Center 3872 AZ-87, Pine, AZ, 85544.

Operations:

West Fire -24 Acres: No significant growth was observed overnight. Today firefighters and equipment will focus on removing fuels along Forest Service Road (FSR) 218. Dead trees are being cut along the Milk Ranch Road (FSR218). Masticators and dozers are also working along portions of FSR 300. Additional control lines are being scouted in Bray Creek Ranch and Camp Geronimo. Dozers are improving existing fuel breaks west of Pine.

Preacher Fire - 2 Acre: The Preacher Fire is burning about 8 miles northeast of Payson, Arizona. The fire is burning within an area previously prepared for prescribed burning. Today engines are patrolling the existing control lines and checking for any improvements needed. Sparse vegetation that re-grew along portions of the previously constructed lines will be removed in preparation for firing operations. 

Both fires are being managed under a confine/contain strategy with the goal of reintroducing fire into a fire dependent ecosystem. The intended result of managing naturally caused fires are to reduce hazardous fuels, encourage the growth of native forage, improve range conditions, increase species diversity, protect and improve wildlife habitat, improve watershed conditions and restore ecological balance. The total planning areas for the West Fire includes 16,700 acres, for Preacher Fire 3,200 acres. This will decrease unnaturally high accumulations of fuels and the potential for future fires to burn with unnaturally high severity, aligning with the Forest Service Wildfire Crisis Strategy: https://www.fs.usda.gov/managing-land/wildfire-crisis.

Weather: Sunny and hot conditions persist with temperatures in the middle to upper 80’s. The relative humidity has fallen to around 20% and the wind is terrain driven at speeds less than 10 mph with gusts to 15 mph. The overall weather pattern will not change through the end of the week with hot and dry conditions. Low shower and thunderstorm chances are anticipated to return to the region on the weekend.

Safety: The health and safety of firefighters and the public are always the first priority. Members of the public are asked to avoid the fire area while fire operations are being conducted.

Smoke: Smoke from the West and Preacher Fires may be visible in the surrounding areas for many days. Smoke will be heavier in the mornings as it settles into the lower elevations and will lift as temperatures increase. As temperatures increase the volume of smoke may increase due to the drying and ignition of available fuels. Smoke-sensitive individuals and people with respiratory problems or heart disease are encouraged to take precautionary measures. Learn more about smoke impacts on the Arizona Department of Environmental Quality website. 

For the latest news and information about the Tonto National Forest, follow along on Facebook @TontoNationalForest, ‘X’ (formerly Twitter) @TontoForest or Instagram @tontonationalforest and on the Tonto National Forest website: https://www.fs.usda.gov/tonto
     
Important fire information:

• Fire information number: (928)-291-7354 (7 am-7 pm)
• Media Phone Number: (928)-291-6528 (7am -7pm)
• Email: Email: [email protected]
• Inciweb: https://inciweb.wildfire.gov/incident-information/aztnf-2024-west-fire-tnf
  A map of the West and Preacher fires on September 5 2024.jpg

The Southwest Complex Incident Management Team 3 assumed command of the West and Preacher Fires at 6 a.m. this morning. 

West Fire -24 Acres:

Yesterday afternoon, the West Fire creeped over on to the top of the Mogollon Rim. Fire behavior was active but low intensity. Today, firefighters will continue to evaluate and improve firelines with a focus on the protection of values at risk (VAR). Handcrews, masticators, and dozers are being utilized to strengthen firelines. Values at risk include the private lands and the communities of Camp Geronimo, Geronimo Estates, Bray Creek Ranch and Pine. Infrastructure values at risk include powerlines, Coconino Forest Service Road (FSR) 300, Coconino FSR 218, State Route 87 and Tonto FSR 64. Natural and cultural resource VARs include range infrastructure, wildlife habitat, cultural resources, timber, and recreation areas.

Preacher Fire - 2 Acres:

The Preacher Fire is burning about 8 miles northeast of Payson, Arizona. Today, firefighters will be masticating and snagging off the 218 road corridor to improve firelines.

Weather: Today, sunny with a high of 91 degrees and a low of 62. Winds will be light and variable becoming southwest 5-8 mph.

Safety: The health and safety of firefighters and the public are always the first priority. Members of the public are asked to avoid the fire area while fire operations are being conducted.

Fire details: 

• Start Date: August 28, 2024
• Location: Payson Ranger District, AZ
• Personnel: 158
• Containment: 0%
• Cause: Lightning
• Fuels: Ponderosa Pine, Mixed Conifer, Chaparral

Smoke: Smoke from the West Fire may be visible in the surrounding areas for many days. Smoke will be heavier in the mornings as it settles into the lower elevations and will lift as temperatures increase. As temperatures increase the volume of smoke may increase due to the drying and ignition of available fuels. Smoke-sensitive individuals and people with respiratory problems or heart disease are encouraged to take precautionary measures. Learn more about smoke impacts on the Arizona Department of Environmental Quality website.

The West Fire is a lightning-caused wildfire that is currently burning four miles northeast of Pine, Arizona. The fire is being managed under a confine/contain strategy with the goal of reintroducing fire into a fire dependent ecosystem. The intended result of managing naturally caused fires are to reduce hazardous fuels, encourage the growth of native forage, improve range conditions, increase species diversity, protect and improve wildlife habitat, improve watershed conditions and restore ecological balance. This will decrease unnaturally high accumulations of fuels and the potential for future fires to burn with unnaturally high severity, aligning with the Forest Service Wildfire Crisis Strategy: https://www.fs.usda.gov/managing-land/wildfire-crisis.

For the latest news and information about the Tonto National Forest, follow along on Facebook @TontoNationalForest, ‘X’ (formerly Twitter) @TontoForest or Instagram @tontonationalforest and on the Tonto National Forest website.

The Arizona Department of Environmental Quality has issued an Ozone High Pollution Advisory (HPA) for Thursday, September 5.

Take Action

• Drive less, carpool, use public transit, or telecommute. For information on transportation alternatives, visit ShareTheRide.com.
• Fuel your vehicle after dark or during cooler evening hours.
• Reduce wait time in long drive-thru lines. Park your vehicle and walk inside at coffee shops, fast-food restaurants, curbside pick-up, and banks.
• Use low-VOCs (volatile organic compounds) or water-based paints, stains, finishes, and paint strippers.
• Delay large painting projects until HPAs have passed.
• Properly seal containers of household cleaners, garage and yard chemicals, and other solvents to prevent vapors from evaporating into the air. Eliminate wood burning in fireplaces, stoves, chimeneas, and outdoor fire pits.
• Avoid using leaf blowers. Use a rake or broom to keep debris out of the road and away from storm drains, ditches, and streams.
• Conserve electricity.

HPA 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-highway vehicles are prohibited from being used.

Transportation Coordinators

Due to unhealthy levels of particulate matter, all Transportation Coordinators are requested to email employees and activate your HPA plans. The department encourages the use of alternative modes of transportation, especially when pollution levels are expected to be on the rise.

Ozone: Ground level ozone is formed by a chemical reaction that needs heat from sunlight, nitrogen oxides and VOCs to form. The months of April through September make up our Valley’s longer-than-normal "ozone season."

"High Pollution Advisory" or "HPA" means the highest concentration of pollution may exceed the federal health standard. Active children, adults, and people with lung disease such as asthma should reduce prolonged or heavy outdoor exertion.

Operations: Firefighter efforts will continue to evaluate and improve firelines with a focus on the protection of values at risk (VAR). Today, firefighters focused on creating dozer and handline around the fire area and scouted possible access to the fire. Values at risk include the private lands and the communities of Camp Geronimo, Geronimo Estates, Bray Creek Ranch and Pine. Infrastructure values at risk include powerlines, Coconino Forest Service Road (FSR) 300, Coconino FSR 218, State Route 87 and Tonto FSR 64. Natural and cultural resource VARs include range infrastructure, wildlife habitat, cultural resources, timber, recreation, and other environmental and social values.

Weather: Today, mostly clear with a high temperature of 89 degrees. 0% chance of precipitation with humidities in the 24% range. East winds of 6 mph.

Tonight: Clear, with temperatures around 58 degrees. Maximum RH’s 45-50%.

Safety: The health and safety of firefighters and the public are always the first priority. Members of the public are asked to avoid the fire area.

Fire details: 

• Size: 12 acres    
• Cause: Lightning  
• Containment: 0% 
• Total personnel: 158
• Start Date: August 28, 2024
• Location: Payson Ranger District, Arizona 
• Fuels: Ponderosa pine, mixed conifer, chaparral

Smoke: Smoke from the West Fire may be visible in the surrounding areas for many days. Smoke will be heavier in the mornings as it settles into the lower elevations and will lift as temperatures increase. As temperatures increase the volume of smoke may increase due to the drying and ignition of available fuels. Smoke-sensitive individuals and people with respiratory problems or heart disease are encouraged to take precautionary measures. Learn more about smoke impacts on the Arizona Department of Environmental Quality website.

The West Fire is a lightning-caused wildfire that is currently burning four miles northeast of Pine, Arizona. The fire is being managed under a confine/contain strategy with the goal of reintroducing fire into a fire dependent ecosystem. The intended result of managing naturally caused fires are to reduce hazardous fuels, encourage the growth of native forage, improve range conditions, increase species diversity, protect and improve wildlife habitat, improve watershed conditions and restore ecological balance. This will decrease unnaturally high accumulations of fuels and the potential for future fires to burn with unnaturally high severity in support of the Forest Service Wildfire Crisis Strategy: https://www.fs.usda.gov/managing-land/wildfire-crisis.

For the latest news and information about the Tonto National Forest, follow along on Facebook @TontoNationalForest, ‘X’ (formerly Twitter) @TontoForest or Instagram @tontonationalforest and on the Tonto National Forest website: https://www.fs.usda.gov/tonto.

The Arizona Department of Environmental Quality has issued an Ozone High Pollution Advisory (HPA) for Wednesday, September 4.

Take Action

• Drive less, carpool, use public transit, or telecommute. For information on transportation alternatives, visit ShareTheRide.com.
• Fuel your vehicle after dark or during cooler evening hours.
• Reduce wait time in long drive-thru lines. Park your vehicle and walk inside at coffee shops, fast-food restaurants, curbside pick-up, and banks.
• Use low-VOCs (volatile organic compounds) or water-based paints, stains, finishes, and paint strippers.
• Delay large painting projects until HPAs have passed.
• Properly seal containers of household cleaners, garage and yard chemicals, and other solvents to prevent vapors from evaporating into the air. Eliminate wood burning in fireplaces, stoves, chimeneas, and outdoor fire pits.
• Avoid using leaf blowers. Use a rake or broom to keep debris out of the road and away from storm drains, ditches, and streams.
• Conserve electricity.

HPA 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-highway vehicles are prohibited from being used.

Transportation Coordinators

Due to unhealthy levels of particulate matter, all Transportation Coordinators are requested to email employees and activate your HPA plans. The department encourages the use of alternative modes of transportation, especially when pollution levels are expected to be on the rise.

Ozone: Ground level ozone is formed by a chemical reaction that needs heat from sunlight, nitrogen oxides and VOCs to form. The months of April through September make up our Valley’s longer-than-normal "ozone season."

"High Pollution Advisory" or "HPA" means the highest concentration of pollution may exceed the federal health standard. Active children, adults, and people with lung disease such as asthma should reduce prolonged or heavy outdoor exertion.

The West Fire is a lightning-caused wildfire that is currently burning four miles northeast of Pine, Arizona. The fire is being managed under a confine/contain strategy with the goal of reintroducing fire into a fire dependent ecosystem. The intended result of managing naturally caused fires are to reduce hazardous fuels, encourage the growth of native forage, improve range conditions, increase species diversity, protect and improve wildlife habitat, improve watershed conditions and restore ecological balance. This will decrease unnaturally high accumulations of fuels and the potential for future fires to burn with unnaturally high severity in support of the Forest Service Wildfire Crisis Strategy: https://www.fs.usda.gov/managing-land/wildfire-crisis.

Operations: Firefighter efforts will continue to evaluate and improve firelines with a focus on the protection of values at risk (VAR). Values at risk include the private lands and the communities of Camp Geronimo, Geronimo Estates, Bray Creek Ranch and Pine. Infrastructure values at risk include powerlines, Coconino Forest Service Road (FSR) 300, Coconino FSR 218, State Route 87 and Tonto FSR 64. Natural and cultural resource VARs include range infrastructure, wildlife habitat, cultural resources, timber, recreation, and other environmental and social values.

Weather: Today, mostly sunny with a high temperature of 81 degrees with 0% chance of precipitation. Humidities in the 23-25% range with southeast winds 5 to 8 mph.

Tonight: Clear, with temperatures around 59 degrees. Maximum RH’s 45-50%

Safety: The health and safety of firefighters and the public are always the first priority. Members of the public are asked to avoid the fire area.

Fire details: 

• Size: 12 acres
• Cause: lightning
• Containment: 0%
• Personnel: 60    
• Start Date: August 28, 2024
• Location: Payson Ranger District, Arizona
• Fuels: Ponderosa pine, mixed conifer, chaparral

Smoke: Smoke from the West Fire may be visible in the surrounding areas for many days. Smoke will be heavier in the mornings as it settles into the lower elevations and will lift as temperatures increase. As temperatures increase the volume of smoke may increase due to the drying and ignition of available fuels. Smoke-sensitive individuals and people with respiratory problems or heart disease are encouraged to take precautionary measures. Learn more about smoke impacts on the Arizona Department of Environmental Quality website.

For the latest news and information about the Tonto National Forest, follow along on Facebook @TontoNationalForest, ‘X’ (formerly Twitter) @TontoForest or Instagram @tontonationalforest and on the Tonto National Forest website: https://www.fs.usda.gov/tonto.

###

The West Fire is a lightning-caused wildfire that is currently burning four miles northeast of Pine, Arizona. The fire is being managed under a confine/contain strategy with the goal of reintroducing fire into a fire dependent ecosystem. The intended result of managing naturally caused fires are to reduce hazardous fuels, encourage the growth of native forage, improve range conditions, increase species diversity, protect and improve wildlife habitat, improve watershed conditions and restore ecological balance. This will decrease unnaturally high accumulations of fuels and the potential for future fires to burn with unnaturally high severity in support of the Forest Service Wildfire Crisis Strategy: https://www.fs.usda.gov/managing-land/wildfire-crisis.

Operations: Firefighter efforts will continue to evaluate and improve firelines with a focus on the protection of values at risk (VAR). Values at risk include the private lands and the communities of Camp Geronimo, Geronimo Estates, Bray Creek Ranch and Pine. Infrastructure values at risk include powerlines, Coconino Forest Service Road (FSR) 300, Coconino FSR 218, State Route 87 and Tonto FSR 64. Natural and cultural resource VARs include range infrastructure, wildlife habitat, cultural resources, timber, recreation, and other environmental and social values.

Weather: Today, a 50% chance of showers and thunderstorms are forecasted for the afternoon. Mostly sunny, with a high near 86 degrees. East winds 5 to 7 mph becoming southeast in the morning.

Tonight: Mostly clear, with a low around 59 degrees. Light east wind.

Safety: The health and safety of firefighters and the public are always the first priority. Members of the public are asked to avoid the fire area.

Fire details:

• Size: 10 acres
• Cause: Lightning
• Containment: 0%
• Total personnel: 20
• Start Date: August 28, 2024
• Location: Payson Ranger District, Arizona
• Fuels: Ponderosa pine, mixed conifer, chaparral

Smoke: Smoke from the West Fire may be visible in the surrounding areas for many days. Smoke will be heavier in the mornings as it settles into the lower elevations and will lift as temperatures increase. Smoke-sensitive individuals and people with respiratory problems or heart disease are encouraged to take precautionary measures. Learn more about smoke impacts on the Arizona Department of Environmental Quality website.

For the latest news and information about the Tonto National Forest, follow along on Facebook @TontoNationalForest, ‘X’ (formerly Twitter) @TontoForest or Instagram @tontonationalforest and on the Tonto National Forest website: https://www.fs.usda.gov/tonto.

The Arizona Department of Environmental Quality has issued an Ozone High Pollution Advisory (HPA) for Wednesday, August 28.

Take Action

• Drive less, carpool, use public transit, or telecommute. For information on transportation alternatives, visit ShareTheRide.com.
• Fuel your vehicle after dark or during cooler evening hours.
• Reduce wait time in long drive-thru lines. Park your vehicle and walk inside at coffee shops, fast-food restaurants, curbside pick-up, and banks.
• Use low-VOCs (volatile organic compounds) or water-based paints, stains, finishes, and paint strippers.
• Delay large painting projects until HPAs have passed.
• Properly seal containers of household cleaners, garage and yard chemicals, and other solvents to prevent vapors from evaporating into the air. Eliminate wood burning in fireplaces, stoves, chimeneas, and outdoor fire pits.
• Avoid using leaf blowers. Use a rake or broom to keep debris out of the road and away from storm drains, ditches, and streams.
• Conserve electricity.

HPA 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-highway vehicles are prohibited from being used.

Transportation Coordinators

Due to unhealthy levels of particulate matter, all Transportation Coordinators are requested to email employees and activate your HPA plans. The department encourages the use of alternative modes of transportation, especially when pollution levels are expected to be on the rise.

Ozone: Ground level ozone is formed by a chemical reaction that needs heat from sunlight, nitrogen oxides and VOCs to form. The months of April through September make up our Valley’s longer-than-normal "ozone season."

"High Pollution Advisory" or "HPA" means the highest concentration of pollution may exceed the federal health standard. Active children, adults, and people with lung disease such as asthma should reduce prolonged or heavy outdoor exertion.

The Arizona Department of Environmental Quality has issued an Ozone High Pollution Advisory (HPA) for Tuesday, August 27.

Take Action

• Drive less, carpool, use public transit, or telecommute. For information on transportation alternatives, visit ShareTheRide.com.
• Fuel your vehicle after dark or during cooler evening hours.
• Reduce wait time in long drive-thru lines. Park your vehicle and walk inside at coffee shops, fast-food restaurants, curbside pick-up, and banks.
• Use low-VOCs (volatile organic compounds) or water-based paints, stains, finishes, and paint strippers.
• Delay large painting projects until HPAs have passed.
• Properly seal containers of household cleaners, garage and yard chemicals, and other solvents to prevent vapors from evaporating into the air. Eliminate wood burning in fireplaces, stoves, chimeneas, and outdoor fire pits.
• Avoid using leaf blowers. Use a rake or broom to keep debris out of the road and away from storm drains, ditches, and streams.
• Conserve electricity.

HPA 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-highway vehicles are prohibited from being used.

Transportation Coordinators

Due to unhealthy levels of particulate matter, all Transportation Coordinators are requested to email employees and activate your HPA plans. The department encourages the use of alternative modes of transportation, especially when pollution levels are expected to be on the rise.

Ozone: Ground level ozone is formed by a chemical reaction that needs heat from sunlight, nitrogen oxides and VOCs to form. The months of April through September make up our Valley’s longer-than-normal "ozone season."

"High Pollution Advisory" or "HPA" means the highest concentration of pollution may exceed the federal health standard. Active children, adults, and people with lung disease such as asthma should reduce prolonged or heavy outdoor exertion.

Crews are responding to a small lightning-caused fire located 6 miles southwest of Sedona and west of the Village of Oak Creek.

The Blackjack Fire, currently one-tenth of an acre in size, has a low potential for growth.

Resources assigned to the fire include a helicopter conducting surveillance, and an engine crew hiking to the fire line.

The fire is smoldering in rough terrain, and steep slopes provide challenging access for firefighters.

Smoke will likely remain visible during fire suppression efforts.

The Yavapai County Office of Emergency Management (YCOEM) will be conducting a Wireless Emergency Alert (WEA) Test in the Prescott Valley area on Thursday, August 29th, 2024, between the hours of 8 a.m. and 12 p.m. This test is part of a multi-jurisdictional exercise aimed at testing the Genasys Protect Evacuation platform for emergency notifications through the Integrated Public Alert and Warning Systems (IPAWS).

YCOEM recently gained the approval to send messages through IPAWS, allowing them to assist jurisdictions in need of emergency notification support.

A Wireless Emergency Alert (WEA) is a vital tool used to broadcast emergency alerts directly to the public via mobile devices. These alerts are designed to inform residents about imminent threats to safety or missing persons (AMBER alerts), and other critical situations. They are short emergency messages that provide essential information to keep communities safe and informed.

The test WEA will be sent to a specific evacuation zone within Prescott Valley, directly related to the training site. This message will only be received by those who are in or near the designated geographical area and have enabled their mobile devices to receive a WEA. It is important to note that unless these settings are turned on, your phone will not receive this test WEA.

“We want to emphasize that this is only a test, and there is no cause for alarm. This training exercise is essential for us to refine our processes, particularly in utilizing evacuation zones within the Genasys system. It also allows us to collaborate with our partners to determine when it is most appropriate and necessary to use IPAWS versus opt-in systems during significant emergencies,” said Ashley Ahlquist, Emergency Manager at YCOEM.

For those who have not yet enabled the turned-on settings to receive the Test Wireless Emergency Alerts, it is recommended to adjust your mobile device settings to make sure you receive them. For more information on how to turn on this setting and details about WEAs, please visit www.YavapaiReady.gov/IPAWS.