28 Jun 2021 | 08:57 AM UTC
US: Emergency crews continuing to respond to wildfires burning in Arizona as of early June 29 /update 9
Emergency crews responding to wildfires in central Arizona, US, as of early June 29. Transport disruptions likely to continue.
Event
Emergency crews are working to contain four wildfires burning in central Arizona, US, as of early June 29. Forecast models indicate above-normal temperatures and dry conditions will persist across the region through at least late June, which could temporarily hamper firefighting efforts. As of early June 29, the following large wildfires continue to prompt evacuations and transport disruptions:
Telegraph/Mescal Fire
The Telegraph Fire and Mescal Fire merged June 17 and are currently affecting Pinal and Gila counties. The fire is approximately 100 km (60 miles) east of Phoenix and 70 km (45 miles) east of Mesa. As of June 29, the fire has burned approximately 73,149 hectares (180,756 acres) and is 91-percent contained. Authorities estimate that they would fully contain the fire by June 30. More than 273 personnel are battling the blaze. Evacuation orders have been lifted, but some transport disruptions are ongoing; for details, click here.
Pinnacle Fire
The Pinnacle Fire currently affects Graham County and is approximately 185 km (115 miles) southeast of Phoenix and 160 km (99 miles) southeast of Mesa. As of June 29, the fire has burned approximately 13,928 hectares (34,417 acres) and is 60-percent contained. More than 49 personnel are battling the blaze. Authorities have not provided an estimated containment date for the fire; hot and dry conditions may hamper firefighting efforts over the coming days. Evacuation orders have been lifted, but some transport disruptions are ongoing; for details, click here.
Backbone Fire
The Backbone Fire currently affects Gila and Yavapai counties and is approximately 110 km (68 miles) north of Phoenix and Mesa. As of June 29, the fire has burned around 16,533 hectares (40,855 acres) and is 43-percent contained. More than 632 personnel are battling the blaze. Authorities estimate that they would fully contain the fire by July 15. Hot and dry conditions may hamper firefighting efforts over the coming days. Additional wildfire growth is unlikely. Emergency shelters for displaced residents are at Rim Country Middle School in Payson. Some evacuation orders and transport disruptions are ongoing; for details, click here.
Rafael Fire
The Rafael Fire currently affects Coconino and Yavapai counties and is approximately 30 km (19 miles) northwest of Sedona and 45 km (28 miles) southwest of Flagstaff. As of June 29, the fire has burned approximately 30,886 hectares (76,322 acres) and is 48-percent contained. More than 633 personnel are battling the blaze. Authorities have not provided an estimated containment date for the fire; hot and dry conditions may hamper firefighting efforts over the coming days. Additional wildfire growth is likely. Some evacuation orders and transport disruptions are ongoing; for details, click here.
Walnut Fire
The Walnut Fire currently affects Cochise County and is approximately 80 km (50 miles) east of Tucson and 65 km (40 miles) northeast of Fort Huachuca. As of June 29, the fire has burned around 4,309 hectares (10,650 acres) and is 56-percent contained. More than 202 personnel are battling the blaze. Authorities have not provided an estimated containment date for the fire; hot and dry conditions may hamper firefighting efforts over the coming days. Some transport disruptions are ongoing; for details, click here.
Wyrick Fire
The Wyrick Fire currently affects Navajo County and is approximately 60 km (37 miles) northwest of Show Low. As of June 29, the fire has burned around 3,072 hectares (7,592 acres) and is 56-percent contained. More than 261 personnel are battling the blaze. Authorities have not provided an estimated containment date for the fire; hot and dry conditions may hamper firefighting efforts over the coming days. Some transport disruptions are ongoing; for details, click here.
Depending on the wildfire progression, the status of nearby roads could change over the coming hours and days. Authorities could close additional routes within the wildfire complex and evacuate more communities due to fire activity and the needs of response operators. The return of residents could disrupt traffic flows after authorities lift evacuation orders. In addition, low visibility from smoke and possible ashfall could contribute to traffic delays and congestion in the region.
Advice
Heed all evacuation orders. Seek updated information on road conditions if driving in the affected area; road closures and detours will cause increased congestion and delays. Collect essential items - including identification and any important legal and travel documents - in an easily accessible "go-bag." Charge battery-powered devices in the case of prolonged power outages.
Individuals not under evacuation warnings should consider remaining inside well-ventilated, air-conditioned spaces to reduce exposure to smoke. Individuals with chronic respiratory illnesses may be more susceptible to the negative effects of smoke inhalation. Eye irritation is possible; flush irritated eyes with copious amounts of clean water.
