Entering Critical Fire Conditions, Stage II Restrictions still in effect

Posted on May 9, 2018 by Haley Nicoll

The Rattlesnake Fire is 90% contained and has burned 26,072 acres. The Tinder Fire in Coconino County is 79% contained and has burned 16,309 acres.

Apache, Navajo, Coconino Counties, Apache-Sitgreaves National Forest, Fort Apache, are all in Stage II Fire Restrictions. This means: no campfires, no wood/charcoal fires, no outside smoking. In your home, if you are still using a Woodstove for heat, the stove must have a spark arrester on top. There are many people still trying to burn or use BBQ grills. If you are caught, you will be charged by local law enforcement. The are patrolling in vehicles and aircraft checking. We are in critical fire conditions, please adhere to the Stage II Restrictions. If you aren’t sure what they are, go to your county website or 311info.net to find out.

A storm system approaching Arizona from the northwest will bring gusty southwest winds and critical fire weather conditions to portions of northern Arizona on Thursday. These conditions will likely develop over all of northern Arizona on Friday.

A Red Flag Warning has been issued from the Yavapai County mountains, Mogollon Rim, and White Mountains northward for Thursday with wind gusts in the 30-40 mph range. On Friday, a Fire Weather Watch has been issued for all of northern Arizona as more widespread critical fire weather is possible with wind gusts of 40-50 mph. Critical fire weather conditions could linger into Saturday for eastern Arizona. No watches or warnings have been issued yet for Saturday – stay tuned for updates. This system will also bring slightly cooler temperatures for the weekend, closer to normal values for this time of year.

Rattlesnake Fire Update, Wednesday, May 2, 2018

Posted on May 2, 2018 by Haley Nicoll

Rattlesnake Fire:

Containment: 82%
Size: 26,072

Fire activity: Fire behavior was moderate yesterday as crews continued to monitor and patrol containment lines on the western, northern, and southern flanks of the fire. Containment on the Rattlesnake Fire increased considerably as fire lines were tested and successfully held despite high winds. There are a few areas along the eastern side of the fire that are putting up minimal smoke. Remaining fire activity is well within the interior of control lines.

Weather: Snow impacted the fire overnight with accumulations of approximately three inches. Today there is a 40% chance of snow in the area with winds gusts forecast up to 31mph. The cold front that started last evening is expected to bring more precipitation to the area through Thursday.

Safety: Residents are reminded to drive with caution in the fire area due to potential smoke impacts on highway 191, and to be alert for fire traffic.

Road and area closures: Forest Road 25 remains closed along with additional closures on the Apache-Sitgreaves National Forests, the San Carlos Apache Reservation, and the White Mountain Apache Reservation. Visit the Rattlesnake Fire Inciweb page for a map and details.

Fire restrictions: The Apache-Sitgreaves National Forests is currently in Stage 1 Fire Restrictions in order to reduce human-caused fires and protect public safety. San Carlos Apache Reservation implemented Stage 2 Fire Restrictions on April 17, 2018. Modified Stage 2 Fire Restrictions continue on the Fort Apache Indian Reservation.

Apache & Navajo County – Stage 2 Fire Restrictions FAQ’s

Posted on May 2, 2018 by Haley Nicoll

Apache & Navajo County

Stage 2 Fire Restrictions FAQ’s

**Note: This information is provided for unincorporated areas throughout the county jurisdictions only**

Can I have a campfire?

NO! No fires are permitted!

Only cooking equipment that utilizes Liquid Petroleum (LPG) that can be turned off by switch is permitted. Again, the area around the stove or device must be completely clear for 3 feet in any direction (including overhead) before being used.

Am I allowed to smoke outdoors?

NO, Any smoking should be conducted inside of a building or inside of a vehicle.

Can I burn the weeds in my yard?

NO. These types of fires are not allowed during any stage of restrictions. You must dispose of your yard waste by other means such as taking it to a transfer station.

What if i have an Open Burn Permit? NO, you are still not allowed to burn. Once restrictions are in effect all burn permits are suspended.

Use of Mechanical and Industrial Equipment:

1. No operating any internal combustion engine that would potentially produce open flames or sparks.

2. No welding or operating acetylene or other torch with open flame

3. No use of explosives

What about recreational vehicles?

No. There is no operating of motorized vehicles off designated roads and/or trails.

What about target shooting and fireworks?

Fireworks are NOT allowed during any stage of Fire Restrictions. The use of explosive targets and tracer round ammunition are also NOT allowed.