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 Based on improving conditions and continued monsoon activity, fire restrictions will be rescinded effective Friday, July 17 at 6:00 a.m. for the following jurisdictions: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.

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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.

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Flat Fire
Tuesday, June 23, 2026

Location of Origin: 9 miles southwest of Heber, AZ Start Date: June 20, 2026
Size: 103 acres Percent Contained: 0% Cause: Lightning, Natural Fuels: Medium logging slash

Resources Assigned: 4 engines, 1 type 3 helicopter,1 type 2 helicopter, 2 type 1 helicopters, 4 dozers, 4 hand crews, and a water tender. There are currently 174 personnel on the fire.

Operations: The Flat Fire remains active with moderate fire behavior. Fire activity includes wind-driven runs, backing fire, and moderate group torching. Isolated torching on the northeast and northwest corners continues to creep through retardant lines. Resources remain engaged on the east heel and flank of the fire utilizing aircraft, handline construction, and existing road systems to slow fire spread. Crews continue constructing direct fire line while scouting additional control lines for future containment efforts. Firefighters remain in a full suppression strategy and will continue utilizing direct and indirect suppression tactics where conditions allow.

Closures: Where the Flat Fire is closest to the proximity of the 300 Road, there is a soft closure to provide for the safety of the public and firefighters. Mile Post 46.39 and 52.26 along 300 Road.

Values at Risk: Cultural sites and heritage resources, tribal sensitive species, cattle and grazing, watersheds and riparian areas, woodland areas, and natural springs.
Weather: Temperatures are running 10 degrees above seasonal averages. Afternoon thunderstorms are possible. Little to no rain, but gusty and erratic winds are expected near thunderstorms in the afternoon.

Smoke: The fire is visible from Show Low while traveling west on Arizona State Route 260. Wildfire smoke from this incident and from adjacent forests incidents will impact Heber-Overgaard and Forest Lakes communities. Other fires contributing to smoke include the Sycamore Fire and Hells Gate Fire on the Tonto National Forest Smoke may be visible from the surrounding communities. Visit fire.airnow.gov/ for current smoke conditions.

Evacuations: There are no evacuations currently. Residents are always encouraged to be in “READY” status regardless of if there are wildfires in your area or not. Follow the Ready, Set, Go! program to prepare for any threats to their community. Go to https://311info.net/ for accurate and timely status updates.
Official fire information can be found on these sites:
• Inciweb: https://inciweb.wildfire.gov/incident-information/azfta-flat-fire
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/apachesitgreavesnfs