Pinetop-Lakeside Sanitary District is flooded and backed up, and officials say this is the worst flooding that we have seen in recent history. Employees are working as hard as they can with pump stations and the plant but are unable to get in or out of the facility and operations are at a standstill. As a results, manhole covers are popping up all over and some homes are reporting sewage backing up into the house along with water damage.

PLEASE limit water use as much as you can (Flushing, Showers, Laundry, Dishwashers) to ease the strain on the system and help prevent more backups. Stay out of flood water, which may be contaminated with sewage and can hide open manholes Keep kids and pets away, and check on your neighbors

HOLBROOK, Ariz. — The White Mountain Fire Coordinating Group (WMFCG) met on Tuesday, July 14, 2026, to evaluate current fire conditions across northeastern Arizona. Based on improving conditions and continued monsoon activity, fire restrictions will be rescinded effective Friday, July 17 at 6:00 a.m. for the following jurisdictions:
• Unincorporated areas of Apache and Navajo Counties
• Apache-Sitgreaves National Forests
• Arizona State Trust Lands
• Bureau of Land Management (BLM) lands
• Cities and Towns of Eagar, Springerville, Snowflake, Taylor, Show Low, and Pinetop-Lakeside

The decision to lift restrictions follows a comprehensive review of several key criteria conducted by wildfire managers from local, state, federal, and tribal agencies as well as emergency management officials from both Navajo and Apache Counties. A few of the key factors supporting the decision include:

• Energy Release Component (ERC) values have decreased significantly, indicating reduced fire potential, and are forecast to continue declining with ongoing monsoon moisture.
• Weather forecasts from the US National Weather Service-Flagstaff office provided for the next 6 to 10 days, as well as longer-range outlooks, continue to indicate favorable monsoon conditions across northeastern Arizona.
• Firefighting resources remain readily available to respond to any new fire starts.
• Recent wildfire activity has been primarily lightning-caused, and responding agencies have successfully managed these incidents without significant control issues.

While these conditions support lifting restrictions, the White Mountain Fire Coordinating Group reminds residents and visitors that wildfire risk is never completely eliminated. Fine fuels can dry quickly between storms, and human-caused fires remain preventable.

Continue to Practice Wildfire Safety
As outdoor activities resume with fewer restrictions, everyone is encouraged to remain vigilant by following these simple safety practices:
• Never leave campfires, charcoal fires, or debris burns unattended.
• Completely extinguish all fires using the “Drown, Stir, Feel” method until they are cold to the touch before leaving. Your fire, your responsibility!
• Know and follow local fire regulations before conducting any outdoor burning or recreation involving fire.
• Properly dispose of all smoking materials. Littering cigarettes or other smoking materials is always prohibited and remains a leading cause of preventable wildfires. ARS 13-1603.a.1

The White Mountain Fire Coordinating Group also asks community members, businesses, and partner agencies to assist by removing outdated fire restriction signs, posters, and notices from public locations. Removing obsolete materials helps ensure the public receives accurate and up-to-date information.

“The cooperation and vigilance shown by residents and visitors throughout this fire season have made a meaningful difference,” said the White Mountain Fire Coordinating Group. “We appreciate everyone who adapted to the restrictions, stayed informed, and helped reduce the risk of human-caused wildfires. Although restrictions are being lifted, we encourage everyone to continue practicing responsible fire safety as monsoon conditions can change quickly.”

For current fire restrictions and wildfire information, visit www.311info.net/fire-restrictions.

###

Holbrook, AZ- The White Mountain Fire Coordinating Group met today to assess current forest and community conditions. Due to rising temperatures and continued drying, the group has determined that Stage 2 fire restrictions are necessary. Therefore:

• The Apache-Sitgreaves National Forest will enter Stage 2 Fire Restrictions beginning Thursday, June 25, 2026, at 6:00 a.m.
• State Trust lands and BLM will enter Stage 2 Fire Restrictions beginning Thursday, June 25, 2026, at 6:00 a.m.
• Navajo and Apache Counties will enter Stage 2 Fire Restrictions beginning Thursday, June 25, 2026, at 6:00 a.m.
• The cities/towns of Show Low and Pinetop-Lakeside will enter Stage 2 Fire Restrictions on Thursday, June 25, 2026, at 6:00 a.m.

Please remember that Stage 2 Fire Restrictions apply to EVERYONE, including local residents and visitors. We all have an important part to play in keeping our communities and forests safe.

While restrictions are generally similar across jurisdictions, specific requirements may vary. Know before you go by reviewing the applicable restrictions at 311info.net under the Fire Restrictions tab or by contacting the local fire department or fire district. The 311info.net website will also provide updates about regional fires and emergencies as they occur.

Other areas throughout Arizona have also implemented fire restrictions. Please be sure to understand and follow the restrictions in effect wherever you live, travel or recreate. To check restrictions around the state, visit the Arizona Interagency Wildfire Prevention website at: https://wildlandfire.az.gov/fire-restrictions.

###