The lightning-caused fire is burning within Deer Lake Canyon
Springerville, AZ, July 7th, 2022 — Fire personnel from the Apache-Sitgreaves National Forests are on scene and responding to the Mesa Fire, located on the Black Mesa Ranger District. The fire was initially reported by a USFS lookout on the 3rd of July. A lightning strike has been determined to be the cause.
The fire is burning in rugged terrain near Deer Lake Canyon, a steep canyon that runs into Chevelon Canyon. Due to the inaccessibility of the current fire location, firefighters are using an indirect strategy utilizing existing roads and favorable terrain to support a strategy of full suppression. Sections of the Forest Service roads 169, 180, and 180A will be utilized to facilitate fire suppression efforts on the ground.
Smoke is expected to be visible in the coming days, particularly from Hwy 260 and the community of Forest Lakes. Operations will continue as weather and fire conditions allow, while simultaneously placing firefighter safety foremost in consideration.
The public is advised to avoid the area if possible. If travel near the area in necessary, please use caution on roadways, watch for heavy equipment in the area, and slow down. These steps increase safety for both the public and for firefighters responding in the area.
Stay up to date on news from the A – S at our website https://www.fs.usda.gov/asnf, on Twitter @A_SNFs and on facebook.com/apachesitgreavesnfs.
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