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The Arizona Department of Environmental Quality has issued an Ozone High Pollution Advisory for Friday, April 29 and Saturday, April 30.

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 during HPAs.
• Off-road vehicle use should be avoided.

Take Action

• Drive as little as possible: carpool, use public transit, or telecommute. For information on transportation alternatives, visit Valley Metro: www.ShareTheRide.com 
• Fuel your vehicle after dark or during cooler evening hours.
• 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.
• Use low-VOCs (Volatile Organic Compounds) or water-based paints, stains, finishes and paint strippers.
• Delay big painting projects until HPAs have passed.
• Make sure containers of household cleaners, garage and yard chemicals and other solvents are sealed properly 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.

Transportation Coordinators

Due to unhealthy levels of ozone, Maricopa County Air Quality Department requests all Transportation Coordinators 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.

Remind employees that they are encouraged to make more clean air. By taking small, simple steps every day, we can all make a difference. Additional tips on how to reduce air pollution can be found at www.CleanAirMakeMore.com.

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. Maricopa County employers enlisted in the Travel Reduction Program are asked to activate their HPA plans on high pollution advisory days.

Since the fire started the challenge of strong winds has hampered firefighting efforts. Fire remains active in the Slate Creek drainage and the lower Crooks Creek drainage. Firefighters were able to control the spot that was an issue just west of Mount Tritle and continue to monitor the area for any activity. Fire in the southwest portion will have fuels transitioning to smaller and lighter brush which can assist with slowing the spread of the fire.

The northwest section of the fire contains a heavy timber fuel model with significant dead and down component contributing to increased fire behavior. Helicopters and fixed wing aircraft will continue operations throughout the day to slow advancement. The fire line boundary to the north is holding as crews continue with mop up operations.  Despite these challenges, firefighters remain optimistic and are doing their best to get the upper hand on this fire. Overall, even though the fire has been challenging things are looking good.

WEATHER: On Friday and Saturday, high pressure will bring a continuation of very dry conditions, but lighter west to southwest winds.

SMOKE INFORMATION:  Residents should be aware of increasing smoke conditions do to winds out of the south. Residents can monitor current conditions for the Crooks Fire, via Arizona Smoke Forecasting system located at https://azdeq.gov/wildfireforecast?fire=crooksfire

EVACUATIONS: Several areas remain in both the  “READY” and ”SET” status. Residents should continue to monitor the Yavapai County Sheriff’s Department Facebook page for additional information. 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 expanded the fire area emergency closure to the south. To view the Crooks Fire area closure order and map visit: Prescott National Forest - Alerts & Notices (usda.gov)

FIRE DETAILS: 
Location: 11 nautical miles south of Prescott-Bradshaw Ranger District (T12N, R2W, SEC 1), near Mt Union.
Start Date: April 18, 2022
Size: Approximately 9196 acres, 27% Containment
Cause: Under Investigation
Vegetation: Timber (Litter and Understory), Chaparral (6 feet)
Number of Personnel Assigned: 855

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

The Coconino County Sheriff’s Office is pleased to announce the neighborhoods along Highway 89 north of Campbell Avenue will be downgraded from “SET” to “READY” status. This includes the neighborhoods of Timberline, Fernwood, Lenox Park, Girls Ranch Road, Wupatki Estates, Antelope Hills, and the residences east/northeast of Moon Crater in Alpine Ranchos.

It is important to note that the Coconino National Forest in that area, including the Cinder Lakes OHV Area, will remained closed, due to a temporary closure order from the US Forest Service. For exact location of this temporary closure order and its established boundaries please contact the US Forest Service and/or visit the official Coconino National Forest website; https://www.fs.usda.gov/alerts/coconino/alerts-notices/?aid=72340.

In addition to the Forest Service temporary closure order, Forest Service 545 will be closed until further notice from Highway 89 to milepost 12 through Sunset Crater Volcano National Monument. The downgrade from “SET” to “READY” is mainly applicable for the private properties and neighborhoods within the Highway 89 corridor north of Campbell Avenue to the north entrance of Forest Service Road 545 (Wupatki National Monument).

The decision to downgrade the evacuation status was made in conjunction with the current Type I Incident Management Team, managing the Tunnel Fire. Due to the continued progress that firefighters have made and the weather outlook, the Incident Management Team has determined this area is no longer at risk from the limited remaining fire activity associated with the Tunnel Fire and recommended we downgrade the impacted areas to the “READY” status.

The Coconino County Sheriff’s Office would like to take this opportunity to thank all the agencies involved in this incident from the initial attack response, evacuation and re-entry efforts association with Tunnel Fire. Those agencies include; the Coconino National Forest, Sunset Crater Volcano National Monument, Summit Fire and Medical District, Arizona Game and Fish Department, Flagstaff Police Department, Navajo County Sheriff’s Office, Gila County Sheriff’s Office, Mohave County Sheriff’s Office, Arizona Department of Public Safety, Arizona Department of Transportation, Coconino County Public Works Department, Coconino County Community Development, and Coconino County Health and Human Services. There are many more agencies that were involved in this incident and our thanks go out to all of those that stepped in to help our communities.

Containment on the Tunnel Fire increased to 43% on Wednesday evening due to firefighters' continued hard work to mop up and secure the fire’s perimeter in the Sunset Crater National Monument and Black Mountain areas. Critical fire weather caused increased fire behavior with pockets of smoke within the fire's interior, but was not a threat to the perimeter. Suppression repair work occurred along Forest Road 545 and in Sunset Crater National Park.

Crews will remain on the Tunnel Fire for several days to patrol and check on reports of smoke and mop-up as needed. Their work will also include finishing backhaul of equipment that is no longer in use and completing suppression repair. As work is accomplished, resources will be released and made available to respond to other priority fires in the southwest.

As of this morning, the Tunnel Fire is 19,075 acres. The reduction in size is due to more accurately depicting the fire’s edge south of Darton Dome near the lava flows.

Tomorrow morning at 7 a.m. the management of the Tunnel Fire will transition to the Coconino National Forest and a Type 4 team. They will provide periodic updates as conditions change on the ground, and Inciweb will be updated until the fire is contained. U.S. Highway 89 has reopened.

Weather: There is a Red Flag Warning in effect for Thursday for low humidity levels and increased winds. Firefighters will continue to patrol and mop-up. They expect any active burning to be within the existing fire perimeter. Much of the visible smoke is a result of several large fires burning in the Region.
 
Closures: The Coconino National Forest has instituted a Forest Closure Order for the area affected by the Tunnel Fire. 

Fire details:
Start date: April 17, 2022
Cause: Under investigation
Incident Commander:
Randy Johnson
Pacific Northwest Team 3
Size: 19,075 acres
Containment: 43%
Total personnel: 338
Location: 14 miles northeast of Flagstaff, Ariz.
Resources: 9 Crews,16 Engines, 2 Dozers,1 Air Attack Plane, 1 Helicopter

Additional fire information:
Inciweb: https://inciweb.nwcg.gov/incident/8068/
Facebook: www.facebook.com/CoconinoNF
Twitter: www.twitter.com/CoconinoNF

On Wednesday strong winds out of the south with low relative humidity, hampered firefighting efforts. Wind gusts of 30 plus mph, drove the fire west of Lookout Mountain toward Dosoris Canyon, pushing smoke into Prescott and surrounding communities. Crews were successful in holding the 52 Spur Road to keep the fire west of the affected communities. Both rotary and fixed wing aircraft were utilized in direct and indirect attacks between Lookout Mountain and Johnson Flat supporting ground operations. Containment rose from 20%  to 23%, and the fire to the north and east remained in their established footprints, and crews remained patrolling those locations and prep for future operations.

Today, dozers and hand crews will work to strengthen the containment lines along Forest Service Road (FSR) 82. Favorable terrain may allow firefighters to access the fires edge west of Lookout Mountain, with the efforts of multiple fixed and rotary wing aircraft. Structure protection remains a key tactical objective and crews continue to perform defensive operations throughout the area. 

Resources Assigned:  5 - Type 1 Hotshot crews, 5 - Type 2 Hand crews, 41- Engines, 14 - Helicopters, Miscellaneous Equipment, and Overhead.

WEATHER: Gusty southwest winds with humidity in the teens to single digits, will once again produce near critical fire weather.

SMOKE INFORMATION:  Residents should be aware of increasing smoke conditions do to winds out of the south. Residents can monitor current conditions for the Crooks Fire, via Arizona Smoke Forecasting system located at https://azdeq.gov/wildfireforecast?fire=crooksfire

EVACUATIONS: Several areas remain in both the  “READY” and ”SET” status. Residents should continue to monitor the Yavapai County Sheriff’s Department Facebook page for additional information. 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 expanded the fire area emergency closure to the south. To view the Crooks Fire area closure order and map visit: Prescott National Forest - Alerts & Notices (usda.gov)

COMMUNITY MEETING: Thursday, April 28, 2022, at 6:00 p.m. Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University

3700 Willow Creek Road, Prescott, AZ. Residents may attend in person at the Hanger or virtually via Facebook Live Stream www.facebook/PrescottNF additionally, residents can watch live or view a replay on YouTube www.youtube.com/channel/UCzbIoBB-yAclQO_Hz0hBMQQ

Fire Details

• Location: 11 nautical miles south of Prescott-Bradshaw Ranger District (T12N, R2W, SEC 1), near Mt Union.
• Start Date: April 18, 2022
• Size: Approximately 9014 acres, 23% Containment
• Cause: Under Investigation
• Vegetation: Timber (Litter and Understory), Chaparral (6 feet)
• Number of Personnel Assigned: 855

Firefighters continued to make progress on the Tunnel Fire Tuesday. As a result, containment of the fire increased to 30 percent. The near-critical fire weather conditions were less severe than anticipated, with only breezy southwest winds and cooler temperatures due to cloud cover that remained over the fire area for much of the day.

Crews working along Forest Roads 420 and 545, and in the Timberline and Wupaki Trails communities patrolled the fireline, backhauled equipment no longer in use, and mopped-up where needed to remove any heat sources near the fireline. Firefighters patrolling in the Black Mountain and Strawberry Crater Wilderness Areas continued to mop-up the fire’s edge to ensure any heat within the fire’s perimeter is not a threat to the control features in place. No helicopter bucket drops were flown on Tuesday; however, a reconnaissance flight confirmed the decrease in acreage south of Darton Dome reported yesterday.

Weather: Early morning cloud cover will clear the area around 9 a.m. leading to near-critical fire weather conditions. As the clouds dissipate, sustained southwests will be 20 to 25 miles per hour and gusting to 35 miles per hour. Temperatures will be in the low-70s, and relative humidity values will remain low at about ten percent. Thursday is expected to be a critical fire weather day with a Red Flag Warning possible. The low-pressure trough will move out of the area Thursday night, resulting in lighter winds on Friday.

Today’s Activities: Firefighters remain vigilant for increased winds that are anticipated as the cloud cover clears the area in the morning. Much of the fire will be in patrol status as crews continue to engage around the entire fire perimeter ensuring that there are no heat sources that could threaten the containment. On the northeast portion of the fire, east of Strawberry Crater, firefighters will continue to mop-up in those areas still showing signs of heat. Equipment no longer needed on the fireline will be taken off the line to be refurbished so that it is ready for use on other incidents. Crews will also begin to repair disturbances that resulted from suppression efforts during the Tunnel 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. 

Fire Details:
Start date: April 17, 2022
Cause: Under investigation
Incident Commander: Randy Johnson, Pacific Northwest Team 3
Size: 19,344 acres
Containment: 30 percent
Total personnel: 363
Location: 14 miles northeast of Flagstaff, Ariz.
Resources: 9 Crews, 16 Engines, 3 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

On Tuesday, a combination of southerly winds and difficult terrain hampered firefighting efforts. Wind gusts up to 25 mph created wind driven runs moving fire across FSR 81. Upper-level winds also continued to push smoke into surrounding communities. Despite  increasing acreage crews were able to increase containment from 16%  to 20%  and complete line construction from Moscow Peak west to Senator  Highway. In addition, teams performed prep work on the north and east perimeter of the fire.

Tactical objectives for today are to improve upon containment efforts made to the north and east. In addition, ground crews with support of dozers and aircraft, will perform direct and indirect actions south of Lookout Mountain and along FSR 81. Remaining firefighters will continue structure protection and be available for deployment to any area of need. An additional Helitack base has been established which will provide for faster turnaround times and increased support of ground crews on the south end of the fire.

Resources Assigned:  7 - Type 1 Hotshot crews, 5 - Type 2 Hand crews, 41- Engines, 13 - Helicopters, Miscellaneous Equipment, and Overhead.

WEATHER: Dry conditions continues throughout the area, with humidity in the teens to single digits. Winds out of the southwest at 15 to 20 mph with gusts up to 30 will produce near critical fire weather.

SMOKE INFORMATION:  Residents should be aware of increasing smoke conditions do to winds out of the south. Residents can monitor current conditions for the Crooks Fire, via Arizona Smoke Forecasting system located at https://azdeq.gov/wildfireforecast?fire=crooksfire

EVACUATIONS: Yavapai County Sheriff’s Department announced several areas have moved from “READY” to ”SET” status. Residents should visit the Yavapai County Sheriff’s Department Facebook page for additional information. 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)

COMMUNITY MEETING: Thursday, April 28, 2022, at 6:00 p.m. Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University 3700 Willow Creek Road, Prescott, AZ. Residents may attend in person at the Hanger or virtually via Facebook Live Stream www.facebook/PrescottNF additionally, residents can watch live or view a replay on YouTube www.youtube.com/channel/UCzbIoBB-yAclQO_Hz0hBMQQ

FIRE DETAILS
Location: 11 nautical miles south of Prescott-Bradshaw Ranger District (T12N, R2W, SEC 1), near Mt Union.
Start Date:  April 18, 2022
Size:  Approximately 8018 acres, 20% Containment
Cause:    Under Investigation
Vegetation:   Timber (Litter and Understory), Chaparral (6 feet)
Number of Personnel Assigned: 786

FIRE INFORMATION:

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

Containment of the Tunnel Fire increased to 20 percent on Monday evening as firefighters continued to secure the fire’s perimeter and remove any heat near the control lines. Fire crews remain engaged around the entire fire perimeter. On the south and southwest portions of the fire, crews patrolled the areas that have been determined to be contained and began returning equipment no longer needed on the fireline so that it can be refurbished and available for future use. On the northern and northeast portions of the fire, helicopters dropped water on hot spots within the fire perimeter to assist ground-based firefighters working to increase containment.

Weather: Winds are expected to be out of the southwest with speeds of 15 to 20 miles per hour, gusting to 35 miles per hour. Temperatures will reach the mid 70s, with relative humidity values in the low teens. The weather forecast will remain consistent for the next several days, with a slight increase in wind speeds on Wednesday and Thursday. Critical fire weather conditions are expected to continue through Thursday night when the current weather pattern moves out of the area.

Today’s Activities: Firefighters are prepared for an increase in wind speeds and will focus their efforts in the Black Mountain and Strawberry Crater Wilderness areas on Tuesday, as they continue remove any remaining heat near the control lines. The crews in these areas will continue to be supported by helicopter bucket drops as weather conditions allow. Along Forest Roads 420 and 545, and in the Timberline and Wupaki Trails communities, firefighters will continue to patrol the fireline, mop-up where needed, and begin to backhaul equipment no longer needed on the fireline. Fire crews will continue working through the night, patrolling the fire and responding where needed.

As of this morning, the Tunnel Fire is 19,344 acres. The reduction in size is due to more accurately depicting the fire’s edge south of Darton Dome following the lava flows. 

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. 

Fire Details

• Start date: April 17, 2022
• Cause: Under investigation
• Incident Commander: Randy Johnson, Pacific Northwest Team 3
• Size: 19,344 acres
• Containment: 20 percent
• Total personnel: 420
• Location: 14 miles northeast of Flagstaff, Ariz.
• Resources:
  • 10 Crews
  • 21 Engines
  • 5 Dozers
  • 1 Air Attack Plane
  • 2 Helicopters

ADDITIONAL FIRE INFORMATION:

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

Yesterday during the afternoon, terrain driven winds pushed the fire further south and west, resulting in increased fire growth and acreage. Upper-level winds caused the smoke influence in the Prescott area. Due to increased fire activity containment fell from 22 %  to 16 %. Crews continued direct line construction south of Lookout Mountain towards Ash Creek and from Moscow Peak west to Senator highway. Firefighters strengthened and improved the northern and eastern flanks of the fire,

Today, crews will attempt to construct direct and indirect control lines to protect Lookout Mountain structures. Multiple aircraft will be overhead assisting ground crews aggressively attacking any fires encroaching the FSR 81. Additionally, crews are building contingency lines to the west of the fire in case conditions cause a change in direction. Operational objectives include:

• Keeping the fire south of Prescott Basin
• Holding the fire west of Big Bug Mesa Road and FSR 83
• Keeping the fire north of FSR 82
• Containing fire east of FSR 97B

WEATHER: Dry conditions over the fire show afternoon humidity dropping into the single digits, otherwise sunny skies. Continued poor humidity recovery will increase fire behavior, with winds out of the south gusting up to 30 mph.

SMOKE INFORMATION:  Residents should be aware of increasing smoke conditions do to winds out of the south. Residents can monitor conditions via Arizona Smoke Forecasting system located at https://azdeq.gov/wildfireforecast?fire=crooksfire

EVACUATIONS: Yavapai County Sheriff’s Department announced evacuations were lifted for some portions of  North Walker Road. Residents should visit the Yavapai County Sheriff’s Department Facebook page to determine if they are eligible to return home. 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: 11 nautical miles south of Prescott-Bradshaw Ranger District (T12N, R2W, SEC 12), near Mt Union.
Start Date: April 18, 2022
Size: Approximately 6454 acres, 16% Containment
Cause: Under Investigation
Vegetation: Timber (Litter and Understory), Grass-Shrub
Number of Personnel Assigned: 746
Resources Assigned:  6 - Type 1 Hotshot crews, 5 - Type 2 Hand crews, 40- Engines, 8 - 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       

Fire crews’ diligence and hard work have resulted in an increase in containment to 15% on the Tunnel Fire. Yesterday residents were able to re-enter the previously evacuated neighborhoods. US Highway 89 was re-opened yesterday afternoon. Firefighters continue to mop up, patrol and secure existing fireline while constructing new fireline to the northeast portion of the fire.

Weather: Conditions are expected to be drier and warmer today. Winds are expected to shift to the southwest and increase in speed Tuesday through Thursday, with possible gusts to 40 miles on hour on Thursday. The fire weather conditions are expected to reach record breaking levels for this time of year.

“We’ll be taking advantage of today’s weather to continue securing fireline ahead of the expected winds later this week,” said Incident Commander Randy Johnson. 

Today’s Activities: Favorable winds today will allow for aviation to assist hand crews as they corral the northeast edge of the fire in the Strawberry Crater Wilderness Area. A 4,000 gallon portable water site, known as a “heliwell” has been set up along Forest Road 545 near Painted Desert Vista.  The newly established heliwell will greatly reduce the turnaround time for helicopters to be able to support mop-up, cold trailing and line construction on the northeast portion of the fire near Black Mountain and in the Strawberry Crater. Crews are mopping up along fireline to Forest Road 9134E north of Black Mountain. Engine crews are patrolling and mopping up in and around the Timberline and Wupatki Trails, Forest Road 420 (Schultz Pass Road) as well as the southern edge of the fire along Forest Road 545 (Sunset Crater/Wupatki Loop Road).

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. 

Fire Details:
Start date: April 17, 2022
Cause: Under investigation
Incident Commander:
Randy Johnson
Pacific Northwest Team 3
Size: 21,216 acres
Containment: 15 percent
Total personnel: 430
Location: 14 miles northeast of Flagstaff, Ariz.
Resources: 8 Crews, 23 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

Last night, fire remained active in Ash Creek. Northerly winds pushed the fire south resulting in significant growth in this drainage. Fire managers will continue to seek opportunities to engage with ground and air forces.

In other areas of the fire, weather provided good conditions to complete firing operations south of FSR 81 and west of FSR 82 to prevent fire spread to the northwest into Lookout Mountain and Dosoris Canyon. Crews continued to mop up and secure the north and northeast flanks of the fire. Throughout the day and into the night, firefighters extended the line south of Lookout Mountain towards Ash Creek and from Moscow Peak west to Senator Highway.

Today’s priority will be in Ash Creek. Fire crews will be working diligently in the southwest part of the fire to control growth that occurred last night. Further efforts will be to build direct line from Yankee Doodle Peak working west towards Senator Highway. Fire managers are planning contingency lines to the south and west of the fire in the event that weather conditions may push the fire in those directions.

WEATHER: Dry conditions will persist over the fire, with afternoon humidity of 5-10%. Today's wind will be slight, mostly terrain driven and will vary throughout the day in both direction and speed.

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

EVACUATIONS:  Yavapai County Sheriff’s Department has announced evacuations will be lifted at 3:00 p.m. today in North Walker.  For more information visit 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 3,914 acres, 22% Containment
Cause: Under Investigation
Vegetation: Brush, Ponderosa Pine, and Mixed Conifer
Number of Personnel Assigned: 675
Resources Assigned:  6 - Type 1 Hotshot crews, 5 - Type 2 Hand crews, 38 - Engines, 11 - 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       

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]net.gov
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.