Arizona Emergency Information Network
Bureau of Land Management lifts seasonal fire restrictions in central Arizona
Effective Thursday, Aug. 22, the Bureau of Land Management will lift all seasonal fire restrictions for public lands administered by the Phoenix District Office, including BLM lands in Maricopa, northern Pinal, western Pima, and Yavapai counties. Due to increased precipitation across the area, additional rain in the weather forecast, and a rise in fuel moistures, it has been determined that the likelihood of wildfire has lessened to the degree that the restrictions can be rescinded.
The Phoenix District’s recreational shooting sites at Baldy Mountain, Church Camp Road, and Saddleback Mountain will open on Friday, Aug. 23. Additional site maintenance is needed for the Box Canyon site, which will open Labor Day weekend. Updates to shooting site status will be posted on the recreational shooting sites page and on social media.
Before recreating on public lands, ensure you are aware of fire regulations, restrictions or area closures.
- Use metal fire rings or grills where present. Wood placed on a fire should never exceed the size of the grill or fire ring.
- If building a fire on the ground (where permitted), choose a location away from adjoining or overhanging flammable material, and ensure the ground beneath and around the fire is clear of all flammable materials. Avoid fires on windy days if possible.
- If you have a campfire, make sure it is fully extinguished before leaving the area. Fires should be doused with water and dirt and stirred with a shovel until completely cold to the touch.
- If you are using a portable stove, make sure the area is clear of grasses and other fine fuels. Prevent stoves from tipping and starting a fire.
- Never throw cigarettes out of the window of a vehicle. Use an ashtray instead.
- Practice Leave No Trace principles—pack out cigarette butts and burned materials from your camping area.
- Never park over dead grass; a vehicle’s catalytic converter can ignite the vegetation.
- Use caution while discharging a firearm, operating an internal combustion engine, welding, or operating acetylene or other torches with an open flame, or using explosives (where permitted).
Fireworks and exploding targets are always prohibited on BLM-managed lands in Arizona.
Fire restrictions may vary by county or jurisdiction depending on the level of fire danger. For information on fire restrictions, prevention tips and restrictions in your area, contact your local BLM office, or visit https://wildlandfire.az.gov.
Firefighters respond to wildfire on Lookout Mountain on the Bradshaw Ranger District
On Friday, August 16, 2024, resources from Prescott National Forest responded to a reported wildfire south of Prescott on Lookout Mountain burning in Ponderosa Pine, brush and grass.
Due to the location and terrain, it took firefighters several hours to access the Lookout Fire on Saturday morning. Firefighters spent the morning cutting in a heli-spot for possible insertion of firefighters into the fire area by helicopter and started constructing fire line through thick brush and fuels. Afternoon outflow winds coupled with hot temperatures caused an increase in fire activity. The Lookout Fire is estimated to be 5-7 acres and is visible from Prescott, Prescott Valley and Groom Creek. Firefighters will be on scene through the weekend using a full suppression strategy to achieve 100 percent containment. The cause of the fire was lightning. There are no values at risk or threatened at this time.
We would like to ask the public to avoid Forest Road 81 to allow fire equipment to navigate the narrow roads to access the fire; and to be cautious if visiting Goldwater Lake as helicopters are using the lake for water.
Resources assigned include two engines, one 20-person crew, one suppression module, and two helicopters.
For information, please call the Prescott NF fire information line at 928-925-1111 or following us on Facebook and Twitter.
Containment increased to 60 percent on the Element Fire
The Element Fire continues to experience no new growth. Acreage remained at 5,364. Containment increased to 60%. The incident complexity has decreased and the Type 3 Incident Management Organization has transitioned the fire to a Type 4 Incident Management Organization. Crews continue to patrol, monitor, and mop up hotspots.
The Wildfire Information Line has been deactivated. Road closures and campground closures have been lifted. Future updates can be found on InciWeb.
- Start Date: August 6, 2024
- Location: About 4 miles east of Chloride and about 12 miles north of Kingman, west of Stockton Hill Road.
- Jurisdiction: Kingman Field Office, Bureau of Land Management
- Fire Size: 5,364 acres.
- Containment: 60%
- Cause: Lightning/Natural
- Fuels: Lower Elevation-Grass/Brush; Higher Elevation-Chaparral/Pinyon Juniper.
- Structures: Currently none threatened.
- Closures: Lifted.
- Fire Resources: 22 total personnel with equipment and crews assisting in suppression activities.
- Safety: No new injuries reported
Wildfires are a no drone zone. Flying drones near wildfires is dangerous for pilots and firefighters and can bring wildfire suppression efforts to a halt. If you fly, we can’t.
Crews gaining ground on Element fire, now 48% contained
The Element Fire experienced no new growth. Acreage remained at 5,364. Containment increased to 48%. The incident complexity has decreased and the Type 3 Incident Management Organization will be transitioning the fire to a Type 4 Incident Management Organization.
The Wildfire Information Line has been deactivated.
Road closures and campground closures have been lifted.
Fire details:
Start Date: August 6, 2024
Location: About 4 miles east of Chloride and About 12 miles north of Kingman, west of Stockton Hill Road.
Jurisdiction: Kingman Field Office, Bureau of Land Management
Fire Size: 5,364 acres.
Containment: 48%
Cause: Lightning/Natural
Fuels: Lower Elevation-Grass/Brush; Higher Elevation-Chaparral/Pinyon Juniper.
Structures: Vock Canyon and homes west of Stockton Hill Road between milepost 18-23 have had the “Ready” status lifted though homeowners should always be ready to go in an emergency
Closures: Lifted
Fire Resources: 93 total personnel with engines, water tenders, helicopter, and crews assisting in suppression activities.
Wildfires are a no drone zone. Flying drones near wildfires is dangerous for pilots and firefighters and can bring wildfire suppression efforts to a halt. If you fly, we can’t.
Updates will be posted to InciWeb.
Firing operations near wildfire to begin east of Clints Well
Fire managers are preparing to conduct firing operations on several hundred acres of land around the Tango Fire, a lightning-caused wildfire first reported last week and located 8.5 miles northeast of Clints Well.
Fire managers are planning to begin firing operations the morning of Aug. 15 and plan to conclude by the end of Friday in advance of forecasted monsoonal rains.
Smoke will be noticeable to residents of the Happy Jack and Clints Well communities and may also be visible to communities below Mogollon Rim and possibly to motorists along Interstate 17 in the area of Camp Verde.
There are no structures threatened by the Tango Fire.
Wildfires are a natural part of the Coconino National Forest’s ecosystem, and when managed diligently and properly following the requisite planning process, improve the landscape long-term in several ways.
Low-intensity fire is a form of land treatment, which works to release nutrients into soils and reduce the accumulation of hazardous fuels (such as dry pine needles and fallen leaves) on the forest floor.
Low-intensity managed fire can also protect critical infrastructure, watersheds, wildlife habitat and culturally sensitive areas from future high-severity wildfires.
The Tango Fire is in an area where previous fires have occurred and prescribed burns, such as the Blue Ridge Urban Interface project, are ongoing. Proactive firing operations on the Tango Fire will increase the amount of treated land near the Clear Creek communities, and work to tie together the fire history in this fire-dependent ecosystem.
This will help further reduce hazardous fuels and help protect infrastructure, property and resources near the surrounding communities.
The management of the Tango Fire aligns with the Forest Service’s 10-year Wildfire Crisis Strategy, which aims to increase the use of landscape treatments – including fire – to improve forest resiliency for generations to come.
The Arizona Department of Environmental Quality has issued an Ozone High Pollution Advisory (HPA) for Thursday, August 15
The Arizona Department of Environmental Quality has issued an Ozone High Pollution Advisory (HPA) for Thursday, August 15.
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.
Element Fire Containment Reaches 40% as Firefighters Demobilize; Public Advised to Avoid Northwest Perimeter
The Element Fire experienced no new growth. Acreage remained at 5,364. Containment increased to 40%. The fire will continue to be monitored as the demobilization of fire fighting resources continues. The Wildfire Information Line will be deactivated Thursday, August 15.
Fire Managers ask the public to avoid the northwest area of the fire perimeter around Big Wash Road. Use caution on Highway 93 as well as Stockton Hill Road north of Kingman. Road closures and campground closures will be lifted in the afternoon, Thursday, August 15.
Fire details:
- Start Date: August 6, 2024
- Location: About 4 miles east of Chloride and About 12 miles north of Kingman, west of Stockton Hill Road.
- Jurisdiction: Kingman Field Office, Bureau of Land Management
- Fire Size: 5,364 acres.
- Containment: 40%
- Cause: Lightning/Natural
- Fuels: Lower Elevation-Grass/Brush; Higher Elevation-Chaparral/Pinyon Juniper.
- Structures: Vock Canyon and homes west of Stockton Hill Road between milepost 18-23 have had the “Ready” status lifted though homeowners should always be ready to go in an emergency
- Closures: Big Wash Road from the water tank junction (CM1470) to the Cherum Peak Trailhead; CM1364 to Big Wash Road; Packsaddle Campground; Windy Point Campground; and Cherum Peak Trailhead. To be lifted in the afternoon, Wednesday, August 14.
- Fire Resources: 93 total personnel with engines, water tenders, helicopter, and crews assisting in suppression activities.
- Safety: No new injuries reported. Fire managers are asking for the public’s assistance by avoiding the area to allow crews and resources to access the fire.
Wildfires are a no drone zone. Flying drones near wildfires is dangerous for pilots and firefighters and can bring wildfire suppression efforts to a halt. If you fly, we can’t.
Updates will be posted to InciWeb.
Element Fire remains at 31% percent containment
The Element Fire experienced no new growth. Acreage remained at 5,364. Containment remained at 31%. Crews are focused on smoldering and creeping heat in the northwest corner with helicopter assistance. The fire will continue to be monitored as demobilization continues today.
Fire Managers ask the public to avoid the northwest area of the fire perimeter around Big Wash Road. Use caution on Highway 93 as well as Stockton Hill Road north of Kingman. Smoke may be visible throughout the day.
Wildfires are a no drone zone. Flying drones near wildfires is dangerous for pilots and firefighters and can bring wildfire suppression efforts to a halt. If you fly, we can’t. 100 total personnel with engines, water tenders, helicopter, and crews assisting in suppression activities.
Structures: Vock Canyon and homes west of Stockton Hill Road between milepost 18-23 currently in “Ready” status.
Closures: Big Wash Road from the water tank junction (CM1470) to the Cherum Peak Trailhead; CM1364 to Big Wash Road; Packsaddle Campground; Windy Point Campground; and Cherum Peak Trailhead.
Safety: No new injuries reported. Fire managers are asking for the public’s assistance by avoiding the area to allow crews and resources to access the fire.
Fire details:
- Start Date: August 6, 2024
- Location: About 4 miles east of Chloride and About 12 miles north of Kingman, west of Stockton Hill Road.
- Jurisdiction: Kingman Field Office, Bureau of Land Management
- Fire Size: 5,364 acres.
- Containment: 31%
- Cause: Lightning/Natural
- Fuels: Lower Elevation-Grass/Brush; Higher Elevation-Chaparral/Pinyon Juniper.
Important fire information:
Fire information number: (928) 362-0549
InciWeb: Element Fire
Pile Burning Planned August 14 - August 31, 2024 in the Prescott Basin
Fire managers on the Bradshaw Ranger District plan to take advantage of the moisture received as they look to burn debris piles in and around the Prescott Basin near Aspen Creek, Butte Creek and Ponderosa Park.
Ignitions are planned to start Wednesday, August 14, 2024, and continue through Saturday, August 31, 2024, as conditions allow. Fire managers expect smoke impacts to be light and visible from multiple locations including Prescott, Chino Valley, and surrounding areas. As nighttime temperatures cool, smoke may linger in drainages and valleys.
In the interest of safety, forest visitors are reminded to obey all traffic signs and use caution when traveling in the vicinity of prescribed burns as firefighters and fire-related traffic will be in the area.
The purpose of this project is to reduce hazardous fuels following thinning and fuelwood removal. Reducing hazardous fuels will help reduce the threat of high-severity, high-intensity wildfire to the public, adjacent private property, and communities. Burning debri left over from brush crush and thinning projects requires moisture in the surrounding vegetation and typically produces much lighter smoke than broadcast burning.
Prescott National Forest’s land management strategy is centered on long-term forest health and includes reducing forest fuels and using prescribed fire on the landscape. Reducing hazardous fuels will help reduce the threat of high-severity, high-intensity wildfire to the public, adjacent private property, and communities.
The project also furthers the goals of the Forest Service’s national Wildfire Crisis Strategy to restore forests so they are less vulnerable to extreme wildfires that can risk lives and property; and impact watersheds and wildlife habitat.
All prescribed fire activity is dependent on the availability of personnel and equipment, weather, fuels, conditions that minimize smoke impacts as much as possible, and approval from the Arizona Department of Environmental Quality (www.azdeq.gov).
Messages will be posted on social media when managed fires are ignited on the Prescott National Forest:
Facebook https://www.facebook.com/PrescottNF/
Twitter https://twitter.com/PrescottNF
For fire information please call (928) 925-1111; or stay up to date on Prescott National Forest news by checking the Prescott NF website and following us on Facebook and Twitter.
image (8).pngMechanical thinning to begin along Snowbowl Road
Potential for road closures during wildfire mitigation work.
A mechanical thinning project along Snowbowl Road, the latest effort to reduce the risk of unwanted wildfire and restore Coconino National Forest lands to a resilient condition, will begin tomorrow.
As part of an ongoing project to reduce hazardous fuels along Snowbowl Road (Forest Road 516), contract crews will resume the cutting of small-diameter pine and fir trees, which will then be hauled to specific locations along Freidlein Prairie Road (Forest Road 522).
Some wood will be made available for public gathering via free use permits, and other wood will be arranged for future pile burning.
“These mechanical thinning operations are part of a larger forest-wide initiative to fulfill our local obligations to the Forest Service’s Wildfire Crisis Strategy,” said District Ranger Matt McGrath. “These efforts are just one small part of a greater overall strategy to reduce the risk of catastrophic wildfire and subsequent post-fire flooding in the Flagstaff area.”
Thinning work is expected to last for roughly six weeks but could last longer due to weather and other factors.
Intermittent closures of Snowbowl Road may occur during tree removal work. These closures would last up to 30 minutes at a time and would occur between Monday and Friday, prior to Arizona Snowbowl’s winter operating season. All motorists, bicyclists and pedestrians will be required to stop during the intermittent road closures.
Signage will be posted to alert area visitors to ongoing work.
A map of the Snow Bowl road closures on August 12 2024.pngSouthwest Area Complex Team to Transfer Command of Multiple Fires to Local Rangers as Containment Achieved
At 6 p.m. on Monday, August 12, the Southwest Area Complex Incident Management Team 4 will transfer command of the Sand Stone, Deer, Y Bar, Bartlett, Sheep, and Clair Fires to Type 4 incident commanders from the local ranger districts. Team 4 extends its sincere thanks to the local communities and cooperators for their support, gratitude, and hospitality throughout this incident. Firefighters have now achieved some containment on all fires, and the remaining work will be completed by local Forest Service personnel. Team 4 resources are either demobilizing to return to their home units or reassigning to assist with other wildfires.
Future Fire Information: The Fire Information phone number and email address will no longer be active after 6 p.m. this evening. For future updates, please contact the Tonto National Forest Public Affairs Officer, Susan Blake, at [email protected], or (480) 647-8082, between the hours of 8 a.m. and 4:30 p.m.
This will be the final update for the Sand Stone, Deer, Y Bar, Bartlett, Sheep, and Clair Fires, unless significant events occur.
Total personnel on all incidents: 263
Clair Fire
Acres: 2,170
Containment: 89 %
Start date: 08/04/24
Bartlett Fire
Acres: 6,161
Containment: 96%
Start date: 08/04/24
Y Bar Fire
Acres: 297
Containment: 93%
Start date: 08/04/24
Sheep Fire
Acres: 2,483
Containment: 26%
Start date: 08/04/24
Round 3 Fire
Acres: 41
Containment: 100%
Start date: 08/04/24
Sand Stone Fire
Acres: 27,390
Containment: 98%
Start date: 07/25/24
Deer Fire
Acres: 378
Containment: 67%
Start date: 07/17/24
Operational Update: Suppression repair activities continue across the fires with approximately one day left of road grading and rehabilitation of dozer lines. Crews have finished the necessary chipping and mastication work on the Sand Stone Fire. Firefighters continue to monitor the fires by air and on the ground, patrolling for concentrated heat while remaining ready to assist with new fire starts.
Weather: Weather is trending towards hotter and dryer with temperatures increasing and relative humidity levels decreasing by mid-week. Chances of thunderstorms are unlikely as a ridge of high pressure remains in place over the Four Corners, bringing drier air over Arizona.
Smoke: With hotter and drier weather, pockets of concentrated heat within the interior of the fires may show smoke and may be visible from Fountain Hills, Sunflower, Deer Creek, Rye, Rio Verde, Goldfield, and unincorporated communities in the Rio Verde Foothills. An interactive smoke map is available at https://fire.airnow.gov/.
Closures: The Tonto National Forest, Cave Creek Ranger District, has issued a Bartlett Lake Post Fire Flash Flood Public Safety Closure to include National Forest System Road 459 (North Lake Road) and all National Forest System lands within 100 feet of the Bartlett Reservoir shoreline. A closure order for the Sand Stone Fire area also remains in effect. See https://www.fs.usda.gov/alerts/tonto/alerts-notices/ for more information about forest closures. Trail users should avoid using the Arizona National Scenic Trail near the fire areas.
Safety: The health and safety of firefighters and the public are always the first priority. Drivers are reminded to use caution and be aware of firefighters working along State Route 87. Temporary Flight Restrictions over the fire areas have now been lifted.
InciWeb: Sand Stone Fire/Clair Fire/Bartlett Fire Fire email: [email protected]
Information Phone: 480-647-8082 Social Media: X @TontoForest and Facebook @TontoNationalForest
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Element Fire Containment Rises to 31% with No New Growth; Demobilization Begins as Public Advisory Remains in Effect
The Element Fire experienced no new growth. Acreage remained at 5,364. Containment increased to 31%. Fire crews continue working on hotspots in the northwest corner of the fire. The fire will continue to be monitored as demobilization begins today.
Fire Managers ask the public to avoid the northwest area of the fire perimeter around Big Wash Road. Use caution on Highway 93 and Stockton Hill Road north of Kingman. Smoke may be visible throughout the day.
Fire details:
- Start Date: August 6, 2024
- Location: About 4 miles east of Chloride and About 12 miles north of Kingman, west of Stockton Hill Road.
- Jurisdiction: Kingman Field Office, Bureau of Land Management
- Fire Size: 5,364 acres.
- Containment: 31%
- Cause: Lightning/Natural
- Fuels: Lower Elevation-Grass/Brush; Higher Elevation-Chaparral/Pinyon Juniper.
- Structures: Vock Canyon and homes west of Stockton Hill Road between milepost 18-23 currently in “Ready” status.
- Closures: Big Wash Road from the water tank junction (CM1470) to the Cherum Peak Trailhead; CM1364 to Big Wash Road; Packsaddle Campground; Windy Point Campground; and Cherum Peak Trailhead.
- Fire Resources: 166 total personnel with engines, water tenders, helicopter, and crews assisting in suppression activities.
- Safety: No new injuries reported. Fire managers are asking for the public’s assistance by avoiding the area to allow crews and resources to access the fire.
Wildfires are a no drone zone. Flying drones near wildfires is dangerous for pilots and firefighters and can bring wildfire suppression efforts to a halt. If you fly, we can’t.
Updates will be posted to InciWeb.
Fires experience no growth over last 24 hours; containment increases
Despite yesterday’s above normal temperatures and low relative humidities, the acreages of the Sand Stone, Deer, Y Bar, Bartlett, Clair, and Sheep Fires remain unchanged. Firefighters successfully increased containment on five of the six fires and are holding the Sand Stone Fire at 96% containment. During a helicopter flight over the fires, firefighters observed no visible smoke within any of the fire areas being managed by Southwest Area Incident Management Team 4.
Total personnel on all incidents: 405
Clair Fire
Acres: 2,170
Containment: 65%
Start date: 08/04/24
Bartlett Fire
Acres: 6,161
Containment: 78%
Start date: 08/04/24
Y Bar Fire
Acres: 297
Containment: 85%
Start date: 08/04/24
Sheep Fire
Acres: 2,483
Containment: 20%
Start date: 08/04/24
Round 3 Fire
Acres: 41
Containment: 100%
Start date: 08/04/24
Sand Stone Fire
Acres: 27,390
Containment: 96%
Start date: 07/25/24
Deer Fire
Acres: 378
Containment: 37%
Start date: 07/17/24
Yesterday’s fire activity consisted of minimal creeping and smoldering, resulting in no significant movement. Firefighters completed mastication and chipping activities along 2.5 miles of Forest Road 201 around the Sand Stone and Y Bar Fire areas yesterday. Crews anticipate completing the remainder of this work today. East of the Y Bar, firefighters are installing water bars to help prevent future erosion. Near the Clair Fire, crews will continue grading the Horseshoe Dam Road over the next couple days. Firefighters are holding and monitoring fire perimeters and will conduct another reconnaissance flight today. Firefighters are also evaluating and conducting suppression repair activities around the various fire areas. Crews remain available to provide for initial attack of new fire starts within their designated response area, while also assisting the Tonto National Forest with additional resources as requested.
Weather: High temperatures, low relative humidities, and a weak chance of showers are expected to continue today and Monday. Tuesday is anticipated to be even drier with reduced chance of monsoonal activity. Warming, drying, and breezy weather, combined with dry fuels and lightning activity, continue to create potential conditions for new fires to start.
Smoke: Some smoke is possible but unlikely to be visible from Fountain Hills, Sunflower, Deer Creek, Rye, Rio Verde, Goldfield, and unincorporated communities in the Rio Verde Foothills. An interactive smoke map is available at https://fire.airnow.gov/.
Closures: The Tonto National Forest, Cave Creek Ranger District, has issued a Bartlett Lake Post Fire Flash Flood Public Safety Closure to include National Forest System Road 459 (North Lake Road) and all National Forest System lands within 100 feet of the Bartlett Reservoir shoreline. A closure order for the Sand Stone Fire area also remains in effect. See https://www.fs.usda.gov/alerts/tonto/alerts-notices/ for more information about forest closures. Trail users should avoid using the Arizona National Scenic Trail near the fire areas.
Safety: The health and safety of firefighters and the public are always the first priority. Drivers are reminded to use caution and be aware of firefighters working along State Route 87. Temporary flight restrictions are currently in place for the Bartlett, Clair, and Y Bar Fires. Flying drones near wildfires is dangerous for pilots and firefighters and can bring wildfire suppression efforts to a halt. Know before you fly. If you fly, we can’t. More information can be found at: https://uas.nifc.gov/.
InciWeb: Sand Stone Fire/Clair Fire/Bartlett Fire Fire email: [email protected]
Information Phone: 480-409-9683 Social Media: X @TontoForest and Facebook @TontoNationalForest
Minimal Fire Activity as Crews Boost Containment to 16% on Element Fire; Public Urged to Avoid Northwest Perimeter
The Element Fire activity level was minimal yesterday. Acreage remained at 5,364. Containment increased to 16%. Fire crews made progress working on hotspots in the northwest corner of the fire.
Fire Managers ask the public to avoid the northwest area of the fire perimeter around Big Wash Road. Use caution on Highway 93 and Stockton Hill Road north of Kingman. Smoke may be visible throughout the day.
Fire details:
- Start Date: August 6, 2024
- Location: About 4 miles east of Chloride and About 12 miles north of Kingman, west of Stockton Hill Road.
- Jurisdiction: Kingman Field Office, Bureau of Land Management
- Fire Size: 5,364 acres.
- Containment: 16%
- Cause: Lightning/Natural
- Fuels: Lower Elevation-Grass/Brush; Higher Elevation-Chaparral/Pinyon Juniper.
- Structures: Vock Canyon and homes west of Stockton Hill Road between milepost 18-23 currently in “Ready” status.
- Closures: Big Wash Road from the water tank junction (CM1470) to the Cherum Peak Trailhead; CM1364 to Big Wash Road; Packsaddle Campground; Windy Point Campground; and Cherum Peak Trailhead.
- Fire Resources: 2 water tenders, 6 engines, 1 Interagency Hotshot Crews, 2 state crews, 1 suppression module crew, 2 helicopters, 181 total personnel.
- Safety: No new injuries reported. Fire managers are asking for the public’s assistance by avoiding the area to allow crews and resources to access the fire.
Wildfires are a no drone zone. Flying drones near wildfires is dangerous for pilots and firefighters and can bring wildfire suppression efforts to a halt. If you fly, we can’t.
Updates will be posted to InciWeb.
Element Fire Containment Advances: Vock Canyon Downgraded to 'Ready' as Crews Secure Perimeter; Public Urged to Avoid Northwest Area
The Element Fire had minimal movement yesterday. Vock Canyon was changed from “Set” status to “Ready” status. Fire crews continue to improve containment around the fire perimeter. Fire Managers ask the public to avoid the northwest area of the fire perimeter around Big Wash Road. Use caution on Highway 93 and Stockton Hill Road going north of Kingman. Smoke may be visible throughout the day.
Fire details:
- Start Date: August 6, 2024
- Location: About 4 miles east of Chloride and About 12 miles north of Kingman, west of Stockton Hill Road.
- Jurisdiction: Kingman Field Office, Bureau of Land Management
- Fire Size: 5,364 acres.
- Containment: 5%
- Cause: Lightning/Natural
- Fuels: Lower Elevation-Grass/Brush; Higher Elevation-Chaparral/Pinyon Juniper.
- Structures: Vock Canyon and homes west of Stockton Hill Road between milepost 18-23 currently in “Ready” status.
- Closures: Big Wash Road from the water tank junction (CM1470) to the Cherum Peak Trailhead; CM1364 to Big Wash Road; Packsaddle Campground; Windy Point Campground; and Cherum Peak Trailhead.
- Fire Resources: 2 water tenders, 6 engines, 2 Interagency Hotshot Crews, 2 state crews, 1 suppression module crew, 2 helicopters, 206 total personnel.
- Safety: 2 persons with heat related illness treated on site. Fire managers are asking for the public’s assistance by avoiding the area to allow crews and resources to access the fire.
Wildfires are a no drone zone. Flying drones near wildfires is dangerous for pilots and firefighters and can bring wildfire suppression efforts to a halt. If you fly, we can’t.
Updates will be posted to InciWeb.
Fire activity decreases; Bartlett Dam Road reopens
The Maricopa County Sheriff’s Office reopened Bartlett Dam Road yesterday to restore access to Bartlett Reservoir. To provide for public health and safety due to increased flash flood potential, and to allow for natural resource protection and burn recovery, the Tonto National Forest has closed all National Forest System lands within 100 feet of the Bartlett Reservoir shoreline. Bartlett Lake Marina and Jojoba Boat Launch areas remain open. North Lake Road, Bartlett Flat, Yellow Cliffs Boat Launch, SB Cove, and Rattlesnake Day Use Area remain closed.
Total personnel on all incidents: 405
Clair Fire
Acres: 2,170
Containment: 51 %
Start date: 08/04/24
Bartlett Fire
Acres: 6,161
Containment: 69%
Start date: 08/04/24
Y Bar Fire
Acres: 297
Containment: 70%
Start date: 08/04/24
Sheep Fire
Acres: 2,483
Containment: 0%
Start date: 08/04/24
Round 3 Fire
Acres: 41
Containment: 100%
Start date: 08/04/24
Sand Stone Fire
Acres: 27,390
Containment: 96%
Start date: 07/25/24
Deer Fire
Acres: 378
Containment: 26%
Start date: 07/17/24
Operational Update: Minimal fire activity continued on the Clair, Bartlett, Y Bar, Sheep, Sand Stone, and Deer Fires yesterday after rain fell across the area the previous day. Only a small amount of smoke was detected in the interior of the Y Bar Fire yesterday, with overall containment increasing to 70%. Around the Sand Stone and Y Bar Fire areas, firefighters continued mastication and chipping along Forest Road 201. Other fire suppression repair efforts include reconstructing berms along Old Highway 87 and repairing dozer lines put in place to prevent fire spread toward the communities of Deer Creek and Rye. Firefighters will continue to monitor and secure fire perimeters while also remaining available to respond to new fire starts as needed. Crews are using helicopters to perform daily reconnaissance flights over the fires and to investigate any new smoke reports that are not accessible by roads. Firefighters are providing assistance to the Tonto National Forest in response to two new fire starts discovered last night.
Weather: Mainly dry weather with near to above normal temperatures is expected this weekend. Monsoon thunderstorms will develop each afternoon with the highest chances for storms over the Y Bar, Deer, and Sheep Fires. These storms may bring strong wind gusts, cloud-to-ground lightning, and heavy rainfall.
Smoke: Smoke may be visible from Fountain Hills, Sunflower, Deer Creek, Rye, Rio Verde, Goldfield, and unincorporated communities in the Rio Verde Foothills. An interactive smoke map is available at https://fire.airnow.gov/.
Closures: The Tonto National Forest, Cave Creek Ranger District, has issued a Bartlett Lake Post Fire Flash Flood Public Safety Closure to include National Forest System Road 459 (North Lake Road) and all National Forest System lands within 100 feet of the Bartlett Reservoir shoreline. A closure order for the Sand Stone Fire area also remains in effect.
See https://www.fs.usda.gov/alerts/tonto/alerts-notices/ for more information about forest closures. Trail users should avoid using the Arizona National Scenic Trail near the fire areas.
Safety: The health and safety of firefighters and the public are always the first priority. Drivers are reminded to use caution and be aware of firefighters working along State Route 87. Temporary flight restrictions are currently in place for the Bartlett, Clair, and Y Bar Fires. Flying drones near wildfires is dangerous for pilots and firefighters and can bring wildfire suppression efforts to a halt. Know before you fly. If you fly, we can’t. More information can be found at: https://uas.nifc.gov/.
InciWeb: Sand Stone Fire Fire email: [email protected] Information Phone: 480-409-9683
Social Media: X @TontoForest and Facebook @TontoNationalForest
unnamed (63).jpgSkeleton Fire Contained Despite New Blazes Sparked by Thunderstorm
The Skeleton Fire continues to see reduced activity, and the fire remained within its perimeter on Thursday and Friday. An afternoon thunderstorm provided significant rain on Thursday, but it also sparked three new fires nearby. Firefighters responded to these new fires Thursday afternoon and continued to monitor on Friday.
This will be the final daily update unless conditions change. Skeleton Fire updates will continue on Inciweb and on BLM
Arizona Fire’s X account.
Fire details:
- Start Date: August 3, 2024
- Location: About 11 miles north-northeast of Black Canyon City in the Agua Fria National Monument
- Jurisdiction: Hassayampa Field Office, Bureau of Land Management
- Fire Size: 24,034 acres
- Cause: Lightning/Natural
- Fuels: Grass/brush
- Structures: Low threat to historic administration site. No active threats to area communities.
- Fire Crews / Resources: One type 1 crew, one type 2 crew, 8 type six engines, 1 type 3 engine, 3 water tenders, and a medical team.
- Total Personnel: 120
- Containment: 30%
- Safety: No injuries reported. Fire managers are asking for the public’s assistance by avoiding the area to allow crews and resources to access and mitigate the fire.
Updates will be posted to Inciweb.
Element Fire has residents in Vock Canyon and west of Stockton Hill Road in "Set" status
The Element Fire experienced outflow winds last evening that pushed the fire north into the Mount Tipton Wilderness. Firefighters will evaluate the full impact from the passing storm and rain. Fire crews continue to be deployed to the most active area on the northwest side of the fire to improve containment and slow its progression to the north.
Fire Managers ask the public to avoid the northwest area of the fire perimeter around Big Wash Road. Use caution on Highway 93 and Stockton Hill Road going north of Kingman. Smoke will be visible throughout the day. Firefighters continue with structure protection in the Vock Canyon area as well as residences west of Stockton Hill Road.
Structures: Vock Canyon and homes west of Stockton Hill Road between milepost 18-23 currently in “SET” status.
Closures: Big Wash Road from the water tank junction (CM1470) to the Cherum Peak Trailhead; CM1364 to Big Wash Road; Packsaddle Campground; Windy Point Campground; and Cherum Peak Trailhead.
Safety: No injuries reported. Fire managers are asking for the public’s assistance by avoiding the area to allow crews and resources to access and mitigate the fire.
Wildfires are a no drone zone. Flying drones near wildfires is dangerous for pilots and firefighters and can bring wildfire suppression efforts to a halt. If you fly, we can’t.
Fire details:
- Start Date: August 6, 2024
- Location: About 4 miles east of Chloride and About 12 miles north of Kingman, west of Stockton Hill Road.
- Jurisdiction: Kingman Field Office, Bureau of Land Management
- Fire Size: 5,364 acres.
- Containment: 5%
- Cause: Lightning/Natural
- Fuels: Lower Elevation-Grass/Brush; Higher Elevation-Chaparral/Pinyon Juniper.
- Fire Resources: 2 water tenders, 6 engines, 2 Interagency Hotshot Crews, 2 Department of Corrections crews, 1 suppression module crew, 2 helicopters, 145 total personnel.
Important fire information:
Fire information Line (928) 362-0549
InciWeb: Element Fire
Containment increases on the Deer, Y Bar, Clair, and Bartlett Fires
Containment on the Deer, Y Bar, Clair, and Bartlett Fires increased yesterday. Many of the fires received substantial rainfall, with more expected today. The Tonto National Forest has begun the assessment of the post-fire flooding and erosion risk on the Sand Stone, Bartlett, and Claire Fires. Firefighters continue to complete work to secure fire perimeters and prepare for any initial attack needs.
Operational Update: Yesterday, minimal heat was detected on the Sheep, Clair, Bartlett, and Sand Stone Fires. The Deer Fire exhibited minimal fire activity in the northwest corner of the fire area. The only heat observed on the Y Bar Fire was in the interior of the existing fire footprint. All fires received some level of rain, with the Deer and Y Bar receiving approximately 1-2 inches. During these storms, over 1,300 lightning strikes were recorded within a 6-hour period in a 25-mile radius around the fires. Mastication and vegetation removal efforts will continue as weather conditions allows. Today, higher humidity and chances of precipitation are expected to result in even less fire activity. Firefighters on the Clair and Bartlett Fires are monitoring the perimeter and remain ready to respond to any new fire starts. Today, crews are beginning to evaluate road conditions to assess the potential for continued vegetation and debris removal. Y Bar suppression repair efforts are also ongoing, with additional heavy equipment arriving today to help complete repairs. The Tonto National Forest has ordered a Burned Area Emergency Response (BAER) Team to identify, assess, and address potential erosion and subsequent flooding from runoff in areas impacted by wildfires.
Weather: Temperatures will continue to move further above normal Friday and Saturday while drier air will bring limited afternoon/evening thunderstorm coverage. The highest chances for storms will be in the higher terrain of the northern fires. This next increase in heat will peak on Saturday before temperatures dip slightly Sunday into early next week.
Smoke: Smoke may be visible from Fountain Hills, Sunflower, Deer Creek, Rye, Rio Verde, Goldfield, and unincorporated communities in the Rio Verde Foothills. An interactive smoke map is available at https://fire.airnow.gov/.
Closures: Horseshoe Lake campgrounds, Bartlett Lake recreation sites, Bartlett Dam Road, Bartlett Lake Flats Road (National Forest System Road #459), and Horseshoe Dam Road (National Forest System Road #205) are closed due to the Bartlett and Clair Fires. The Tonto National Forest has issued a closure order for the Sand Stone Fire area. See https://www.fs.usda.gov/alerts/tonto/alerts-notices/ for more information about forest closures. Trail users should avoid using the Arizona National Scenic Trail near the fire areas.
Safety: The health and safety of firefighters and the public are always the first priority. Drivers are reminded to use caution and be aware of firefighters working along State Route 87. Temporary flight restrictions are currently in place for the Bartlett, Clair, and Y Bar Fires. Flying drones near wildfires is dangerous for pilots and firefighters and can bring wildfire suppression efforts to a halt. Know before you fly. If you fly, we can’t. More information can be found at: https://uas.nifc.gov/.
Fire details:
Clair Fire
Start Date: August 4, 2024
Acres: 2,170
Containment: 51%
Bartlett Fire
Start Date: August 4, 2024
Acres: 6,161
Containment: 69%
Y Bar Fire
Start Date: August 4, 2024
Acres: 297
Containment: 34%
Sheep Fire
Start Date: August 4, 2024
Acres 2,483
Containment: 0%
Round 3 Fire
Start Date: August 4, 2024
Acres: 41
Containment: 100%
Sand Stone Fire
Start Date: July 25, 2024
Acres: 27,390
Containment: 96%
Deer Fire
Start Date: July 17, 2024
Acres: 378
Containment: 26%
Important fire information:
InciWeb: Sand Stone Fire
Fire email: [email protected]
Information Phone: (480) 409-9683
Social Media: X @TontoForest and Facebook @TontoNationalForest
Skeleton Fire Sees Reduced Activity as Containment Reaches 30%
The Skeleton Fire continues to see reduced activity, and the fire remained within its perimeter on Thursday.
Crews continued work securing fire edges, and the fire is now 30 percent contained. Updated maps are available on the Skeleton Fire Inciweb page.
The fire has burned in the Agua Fria National Monument and the Tonto National Forest.
Fire details:
- Start Date: August 3, 2024
- Location: About 11 miles north-northeast of Black Canyon City in the Agua Fria National Monument
- Jurisdiction: Hassayampa Field Office, Bureau of Land Management
- Fire Size: 24,034 acres
- Cause: Lightning/Natural
- Fuels:
- Grass/brush
- Structures: Low threat to historic administration site. No active threats to area communities.
- Fire Crews / Resources: One type 1 crew, one type 2 crew, 8 type six engines, 1 type 3 engine, 3 water tenders, and a medical team. \
- Containment: 30%
- Safety: No injuries reported. Fire managers are asking for the public’s assistance by avoiding the area to allow crews and resources to access and mitigate the fire.
Wildfires are a no drone zone. Flying drones near wildfires is dangerous for pilots and firefighters and can bring wildfire suppression efforts to a halt. If you fly, we can’t.
Updates will be posted to Inciweb.