Jim Zornes from the Apache-Sitgreaves National Forest and ordered temporary closures in the Sitgreaves National Forest. Promontory Butte Area and the area known as Rodeo Chediski and Show Low South Hazardous Fire Conditions Closure Area have been ordered closed as of 12:01 am on June 19, 2013 and will remain in effect until July 31, 2013 unless rescinded before that date. The purpose of these closure is “to protect public and fire fighter health and safety, and protect government property, private property and natural resources during high to extreme fire conditions”.

Detailed area descriptions, and maps can be found in the Forest Closure Orders on the Apache-Sitgreaves National Forest website: http://www.fs.usda.gov/alerts/asnf/alerts-notices.

A Red Flag Warning has been issued by the National Weather Service for the following areas: Apache County, Coconino County, Navajo County, northern Gila County and Yavapai County. Very dry and windy conditions will develop Wednesday as a dry cold front moves through the Great Basin. Southwest winds from 15 to 25 MPH with gusts reaching 30 to 40 MPH will be widespread by early Wednesday afternoon. these winds will combine with single digit relative humidity values and high fire danger to create Critical Fire Weather conditions.

Breezy and dry conditions will persist Thursday and Friday as well, although winds will not be quite as high. Only localized Critical Fire Weather conditions are expected at this time.

Thanks to all the fire crew the fire on Flat Top was contained. We appreciate everyone’s hard work getting this fire under control.

There is a fire on top of Flat Top Mountain in Eagar, AZ. Fire Crews are on scene along with Water Tankers and helicopters. The Fire Crews are working hard trying to maintain the fire. We will keep you posted as information becomes available.