UPDATE 5/25 9:00 A.M.
Flagstaff, Ariz. – The Slide Fire is located in Oak Creek Canyon just north of Slide Rock State Park and burning northward, predominantly on the west side of the canyon.
Size: 13,423 acres (Acres are based on infrared photography 5/24/14)
On Saturday, efforts to suppress the fire were hindered by smoke which prohibited the use of aerial observation aircraft. Helicopter activity supporting firefighters on the line was also significantly reduced. Late in the day a helicopter was able to complete a mission dropping ignition devices (PSD) to burnout fuels between the West Fork of Oak Creek Canyon and the fire line along Forest Road 535. High moisture levels over the fire during the night time hours prohibited further burnout operations. Yesterday a 230KW power transmission line was re-energized northwest of the fire. Another APS line was also energized heading east from the Arizona Department of Transportation maintenance facility near the Overlook on Highway 89.
On Friday Congresswoman Ann Kirkpatrick and Arizona Representative Bob Thorpe visited the Incident Command Post. They were briefed by members of the Incident Command Team on fire strategy, potential fire impacts, and evacuations in the fire area.
Burnout operations will continue today along Woody Mountain Road FR231 depending on weather conditions and the outcome of nightshift operations. Crews will continue to mop up and reinforce completed containment lines on the perimeter of the fire. Fire personnel will also be working with APS in Oak Creek Canyon to repair power lines damaged in the area. Although burning conditions today will be tempered by weather conditions, a warmer and dryer period is expected for early this week.
Although numerous burnout operations have occurred over the fire, the overall impact is very similar to those of a controlled burn. Sensitive application of fire is utilized to minimize impact on the forest.
The Incident Management Team expresses their sincere thanks for donations which were received in support of our firefighters. However they request that future donations be made to charities like the Salvation Army, United Way, the American Red Cross, Coconino and Yavapai Search and Rescue, or other local charitable organizations. Firefighters working the Slide Fire are well supplied and need no further clothing and food items. Individuals wanting to donate their time should contact the Northern Arizona United Way at (928) 773-9813 or nazunitedway.org.
Location: Originated just about 4 to 5 miles north of Sedona, just north of Slide Rock State Park.
Date Reported: Tuesday, May 20 at approximately 4 p.m.
Cause: Human caused, under investigation.
Law Enforcement is seeking any information the public may have regarding the start of the Slide Fire and anyone of suspicion in the area on the day the fire started between Slide Rock State Park and Half Way Picnic Area. The public should call Forest Service Law Enforcement at 928-527-3511 if they have any information that might assist law enforcement in the investigation.
Structures Threatened: Approximately 300 structures, private homes, vacation resort cabins, and a Forest Service lookout tower. To date no structures have been lost.
Injuries: No injuries reported.
Current Resources: Approximately 1,219 personnel including 38 crews, 62 engines, nine helicopters, two air attack planes, and other resources which are not assigned but available to the incident such as heavy air tankers.
Closures:
· Highway 89A from Sedona to Fort Tuthill in Flagstaff
· Forest Road (FR) 535 at Highway 89A
· FR 533 at Highway 89A
· FR 231 at Rogers Lake
· FR 527 and 530 (west side; Volunteer Canyon area)
· Casner Mountain is closed to all vehicles
Evacuations: The Coconino County Sheriff’s Office has announced the lifting of the pre-evacuation warning, effective at noon on Monday, May 26 for residents impacted by the Slide Fire in the Kachina Village and Forest Highlands sub-divisions. This action is dependent on fire activity. Evacuations remain in place in Oak Creek Canyon from Slide Rock State Park to Sterling Springs Hatchery. No new evacuations are in place at this time.
Coconino County is reminding people to register their cellphone number with the County’s CodeRED emergency notification system at www.coconino.az.gov/emergency. Only those residents whose numbers are registered will receive a direct phone call about any type of pre- or mandatory evacuation order.
For information on air quality, please visit the Arizona Department of Environmental Quality website at: http://wildlandfire.az.gov
UPDATE 1:31 P.M. Midday update:
Slide Fire Midday Update
Incident: Slide Fire Wildfire
Released: 57 min. ago
Slide Fire Midday Update
May 24, 2014
Media Information: 623-252-1782
Public Information:
Information Center: 928-679-4173, 928 774 1947, 8:00 am to 8:00 pm
Website: http://inciweb.nwcg.gov
Facebook www.facebook.com/slidefireinfo
Twitter: @CoconinoNF
Flickr (photos and maps): www.flickr.com/coconinonationalforest
Flagstaff, Ariz. – The Slide Fire is located in Oak Creek Canyon just north of Slide Rock State Park and burning northward, predominantly on the west side of the canyon.
Size: Approximately 10,609 acres.
The weather conditions in the area of the Slide Fire remained fairly stagnant this morning. The failure of the air inversion to lift has grounded observation aircraft and prohibited the use of helicopters for aerial ignition. Line crews will continue to burnout by hand the area between the West Fork of Oak Creek Canyon and Forest Road 535. Mop up is continuing around structures in Oak Creek Canyon.
Because of fire conditions Coconino County has instituted a ban on open burning on County public lands and private lands in the unincorporated areas of the County. The ban went into effect at 10:30 a.m. Friday May 23 and will remain in effect until fire danger conditions subside. Further information on this ban may be found at www.coconino.az.gov.
The Incident Management Team expresses their sincere thanks for donations which were received in support of our firefighters. However they request that future donations be made to charities like United Way, the American Red Cross, Coconino and Yavapai Search and Rescue, or other local charitable organizations. Firefighters working the Slide Fire are well supplied and need no further clothing and food items. Individuals wanting to donate their time should contact the Northern Airzona United Way at (928) 773-9813 or nazunitedway.org.
Coconino County is reminding people to register their cellphone number with the County’s CodeREDemergency notification system at www.coconino.az.gov/emergency. Only those residents whose numbers are registered will receive a direct phone call about any type of pre- or mandatory evacuation order.
For information on air quality, please visit the Arizona Department of Environmental Quality website at http://wildlandfire.az.gov
###
UPDATE 10:00 A.M. OFFICIAL USFS UPDATE:
The Slide Fire is located in Oak Creek Canyon just north of Slide Rock State Park and burning northward, predominantly on the west side of the canyon.
Size: Approximately 10,609 acres.
Last night crews performed firing operations along the north side of the fire to remove fuel along a power line which supplies electricity to Flagstaff. Night time firing operations were especially effective because lower temperatures, higher humidity, and calmer wind moderated fire behavior.
Much of the terrain in the canyon is steep and rugged, making conditions unsafe for firefighters. An outstanding example of the good work being done by firefighters was the treatment applied to the switchbacks on Highway 89A Thursday night and Friday. Hotshot crews built a containment line across the switchbacks, and brought fire downhill, burning out the west side of Oak Creek Canyon to the bottom. This low intensity backing fire removed fine fuels and ladder fuels, preventing fire from running upslope, and consuming forest vegetation in its path.
Today, firefighters are preparing line on the southwest side in anticipation of additional burnout operations. Along the northern perimeter crews will patrol and continue mop up of last night’s firing operations, while preparing for more burn out operations tonight. Chipping crews will chip brush and slash along the east side of the fire. Along the eastern flank, mop up of last night’s firing operations, monitoring, and structure protection will be the priorities for the day. Aircraft will support ground forces with water drops, and with PSD (perforated spherical device) firing operations.
Structure protection will continue in the Kachina Village and Forest Highlands areas.
Containment: 5%
Location: Originated just about 4 to 5 miles north of Sedona, just north of Slide Rock State Park.
Date Reported: Tuesday, May 20 at approximately 4 p.m.
Cause: Human caused, under investigation
Structures Threatened: Approximately 300 structures, private homes, vacation resort cabins, and a Forest Service lookout tower. To date no structures have been lost.
Injuries: No injuries reported.
Current Resources: Approximately 975 personnel including 36 crews, 46 engines, three air tankers, nine helicopters, two air attack planes, and other resources.
Closures:
• Highway 89A from Sedona to Fort Tuthill in Flagstaff
• Forest Road (FR) 535 at Highway 89A
• FR 533 at Highway 89A
• FR 231 at Rogers Lake
• FR 527 and 530 (west side; Volunteer Canyon area)
• Casner Mountain is closed to all vehicles
Evacuations: Evacuations remain in place in Oak Creek Canyon from Slide Rock State Park to Sterling Springs Hatchery. Coconino County issued a pre-evacuation notice to residents of Kachina Village and Forest Highlands subdivisions. Residents are advised to be prepared to evacuate. County Emergency Management encourages those in the affected neighborhoods to begin packing important items they may need for several days. These items include prescriptions, important papers, any special dietary needs and pets. No new evacuations are in place at this time.
Coconino County is reminding people to register their cellphone number with the County’s CodeRED emergency notification system atwww.coconino.az.gov/emergency. Only those residents whose numbers are registered will receive a direct phone call about any type of pre- or mandatory evacuation order.
For information on air quality, please visit the Arizona Department of Environmental Quality website at: http://wildlandfire.az.gov
UPDATE 10:00 P.M. OFFICIAL UPDATE FROM USFS:
Public Information:
Information Center: 928-679-4173, 928 774 1947, 8:00 am to 8:00 pm
Website: http://inciweb.nwcg.gov
Facebook www.facebook.com/slidefireinfo
Twitter: @CoconinoNF
Flickr (photos and maps): www.flickr.com/coconinonationalforest
Flagstaff, Ariz. – The Slide Fire is located in Oak Creek Canyon just north of Slide Rock State Park and burning northward, up the canyon into places such as West Fork and Harding Point.
The fire burned with lower intensity today across most of the fire, allowing firefighters to make progress. However the fire was very active in the area of Howard Pocket NW of Oak Creek Canyon. Crews conducted successful burnout operations along the “switchbacks” down Highway 89A to the fish hatchery which, will continue tonight. Firefighters, protecting structures in evacuated areas, were able to allow the fire to slowly back downhill to the containment lines behind the structures. This action will provide more security for evacuated homes. Firefighters held fire lines on the SW flank of the fire adjacent to the Secret Mountain Wilderness. On the north and west side of the fire, crews were able to improve lines along FR 535 to the power line and southeast along FR 231, facilitating burnout operations when weather conditions permit.
A burn out operation will be initiated tonight and is part of the overall containment strategy on the NW section of the fire. The idea is to create an area northwest of the main fire that circles the deep canyons, including West Fork of Oak Creek, keeping firefighters out of very hazardous terrain. When burnout operations are completed, it will halt the main fire as it approaches, because of the lack of fuel. Although this strategy will increase the total fire acreage it also lessens impacts to natural resources and provides for the safety of firefighters. These actions are taking place because firefighter and public safety are our number one priority.
Firefighters plan to conduct burnout operations overnight while atmospheric conditions dampen
fire intensity.
Size: Approximately 8,500 acres.
Containment: 5%
Location: Originated just about 4 to 5 miles north of Sedona, just north of Slide Rock State Park.
Date Reported: Tuesday, May 20 at approximately 4 p.m.
Cause: Human caused, under investigation
Structures Threatened: Approximately 300 structures, private homes, vacation resort cabins, and a Forest Service lookout tower. To date no structures have been lost.
Injuries: No injuries reported.
Current Resources: Approximately 960 personnel including 15 hotshot crews, 51 engines, three air tankers, nine helicopters, two air attack, and other resources.
Closures:
· Highway 89A from Sedona to Fort Tuthill in Flagstaff · Forest Road (FR) 535 at Highway 89A · FR 533 at Highway 89A · FR 231 at Rogers Lake · FR 527 and 530 (west side; Volunteer Canyon area) · Casner Mountain is closed to all vehicles
Evacuations: Evacuations remain in place in Oak Creek Canyon from Slide Rock State Park to Sterling Springs Hatchery. Coconino County issued a pre-evacuation notice to residents of Kachina Village and Forest Highlands subdivisions. Residents are advised to be prepared to evacuate. County Emergency Management encourages those in the affected neighborhoods to begin packing important items they may need for several days. These items include prescriptions, important papers, any special dietary needs and pets. No new evacuations are in place at this time.
Coconino County is reminding people to register their cellphone number with the County’s CodeREDemergency notification system at www.coconino.az.gov/emergency. Only those residents whose numbers are registered will receive a direct phone call about any type of pre- or mandatory evacuation order.
For information on air quality, please visit the Arizona Department of Environmental Quality website at: http://wildlandfire.az.gov
Basic Information
Incident Type Wildfire
Cause Unknown
Date of Origin Tuesday May 20th, 2014 approx. 04:00 PM
Location Oak Creek Canyon, south of Flagstaff
Current Situation
Total Personnel 840
Size 8,500 acres
Percent Contained 5%
Fuels Involved
Timber, past fuel treatments in area
Fire Behavior
Extreme fire behavior has been observed.
Significant Events
Fire retardant was used heavily in steep terrain yesterday along the west flank with good results.
Outlook
Planned Actions
Potential burnout operations along upper 89A ‘switchbacks’ to hold the northeast fire flank. SE winds may increase fire behavior to the NW to Harding Point.
Growth Potential
Potentially active today to the NW near Harding Point.
Terrain Difficulty
Steep slopes, canyon, very difficult terrain
Remarks
Efforts continue today on holding fire west of HWY 89A. Firing operations expected to continue.
Current Weather
Wind Conditions 21 mph SE
Temperature 59 degrees
Humidity 13%
UPDATE 6:45 P.M.: OFFICIAL COMMAND UPDATE:
New size is 8,500 acres burned.
No homes lost
2.2 Million cost estimate to fight the fire so far.
More to follow…
UPDATE 6:00 P.M.
Still no official update from Fire Managers. We’re expecting one very soon. The Associated Press reported a few minutes ago, that Commanders said the fire is expected to TRIPLE in size over the next few days- as crews work to get the upper hand while the fire is in more flat terrain. Commanders say they plan to let the fire burn across the more level lands to the north and west into what they are calling a “catchers mit” defensive tactic. The commander went on to say the number one priority is protecting lives and property right now. Other goals are to keep the fire from pushing into the communities to the east. Instead of placing crews in the steeper canyons that were prone to extreme danger, helicopters dropped explosive chemicals to combat the fire. Fire managers said that despite the planned spike in growth over the next couple days, they are controlling this fire.
The National Weather Service in Bellemont posted the following regarding smoke settling in areas around the fire.
Click to enlarge. Courtesy of the National Weather Service.
UPDATE 1:45 P.M. OFFICIAL USFS MIDDAY UPDATE:
Public Information:
928-679-4173, New 928-774-1947, Hours of operation 8:00 am to 8:00 pm
Website: http://inciweb.nwcg.gov
A community meeting on the Slide Fire will be held this afternoon at 4p.m. in Sedona at the Red Rock High School Performing Arts Center, 995 Upper Red Rock Loop Road.
Work continues along FSR 231 and FSR 535 to prepare for burnout operations. Firefighters are utilizing aerial ignitions by helicopter and continuing ground burnout operations on the north and west flanks. Aerial ignitions are applied to the top of slopes; it creates a low intensity fire that backs slowly down the canyon to prevent fire from gaining momentum upslope. Crews continue to protect structures in Oak Creek Canyon.
Over a hundred spot fires were found last night with an infrared flight north of the fire. Crews were able to line and mop-up the spots easily due to past fuel treatments in the area.
Firefighter safety is our number one priority. Due to the extreme terrain, our suppression strategy is to create containment lines in safer areas far ahead of the fire, reinforcing these lines with low-intensity burnout operations. This means fire managers are expecting the size of the fire’s footprint to greatly increase, but many areas will receive much lighter fire behavior.
For information on air quality, please visit Arizona Department of Environmental Quality at: http://phoenixvis.net/ppmmain.aspx
No new information regarding size and containment at this time.
All closures and evacuations remain the same.
Most recent MODIS MAP
Most recent boundary map:
Click to enlarge.
and
Click to enlarge. Courtesy USFS.
UPDATE 9:00 A.M. Public Meeting this afternoon, Video from this mornings conference
Video from this mornings media briefing with fire managers can be found by clicking here. (Courtesy of our friends at KNXV ABC 15)
Also, a message from command staff, “The Incident Management Team expresses our sincere thank you for donations we have received but asks that future donations be made to charities like United Way, the American Red Cross, Coconino and Yavapai Search and Rescue, or other local charitable organizations. Firefighters working the Slide Fire are well supplied.”
The Incident Management Team for the #slidefire will hold a public meeting this afternoon:
4pm, Friday May 23rd.
Sedona Performing Arts Center located at 995 Upper Red Rock Loop Road in Sedona.
This meeting will be an informational meeting on the firefighting operations currently going on.
UPDATE 8:00 A.M from Incident Command:
Flagstaff, Ariz. – The Slide Fire is located in Oak Creek Canyon just north of Slide Rock State Park and burning northward, up the canyon into places such as West Fork and Harding Point.
Overnight: Crews made good progress overnight conducting burnout operations along the north and east flanks of the fire. Several small spot fires were contained south of FSR 535 through the evening hours. Additional burnout operations were conducted starting near the upper canyon ‘switchbacks’ on Highway 89A southward to the Fish Hatchery.
Today:
Firefighters will continue working in the East Pocket area to the southwest using possible retardant and water drops in the rugged terrain. Prep work will also continue along FSR 231 and FSR 535 in preparation for aerial ignitions and ground burnout operations to the north and west flanks. Forming a ‘catcher’s mitt’ to the northwest, this suppression strategy will significantly increase acreage, but is essential to firefighter safety in extreme canyon terrain. Safety remains the number one priority in all wildfire operations. Fire managers anticipate lower intensity fire behavior within the ‘catcher’s mit’ containment lines. Crews will also work to hold hand and dozer line completed overnight near the Fish Hatchery. If conditions permit, crews may conduct burnouts near Slide Rock State Park to secure the southernmost containment lines.
Size: Approximately 7,500 acres.
Containment: 5%
Location: Originated just about 4 to 5 miles north of Sedona, just north of Slide Rock State Park.
Date Reported: Tuesday, May 20 at approximately 4 p.m.
Cause: Human caused, under investigation
Law Enforcement is seeking any information the public may have regarding the start of the Slide Fire and anyone of suspicion in the area on the day the fire started between Slide Rock State Park and Half Way Picnic Area. The public should call Forest Service Law Enforcement at 928-527-3511 if they have any information that might assist law enforcement in the investigation.
Structures Threatened: Approximately 300 structures, private homes as well vacation resort cabins and a Forest Service lookout tower.
Injuries: No injuries reported.
Current Resources: Approximately 840 personnel including 15 hotshot crews, 33 engines, three air tankers, five helicopters, two air attack, and other resources.
Evacuations: Evacuations remain in place in Oak Creek Canyon from Slide Rock State Park to Sterling Springs Hatchery. Coconino County issued a pre-evacuation notice to residents of Kachina Village and Forest Highlands subdivisions. No new evacuations are in place at this time.
UPDATE 7:30 A.M. : No official updates yet from fire managers on overnight fire behavior and progress. Expecting one any moment. Heavy air tankers expected to resume drops around 9 a.m. this morning. 900 firefighters, 35 crews, 33 engines, 9 helicopters are now assigned to this fire, making it the number one priority fire in the nation. Erratic winds last night were reported in Oak Creek Canyon but no buildings were lost. Type 1 Team Commander Tony Sciacca says crews are still on edge with winds expected today. Good news? RAIN! Thunderstorms are also expected later in the afternoon. Here’s the latest MODIS map (Fig A.) and Perimeter map (Fig B)
Fig A. Click to enlarge.
fig B. Click to enlarge.
Morning fire weather forecast:
UPDATE 5/22 8:35 P.M. Official Update from Incident Command:
Flagstaff, Ariz. – The Slide Fire is located in Oak Creek Canyon just north of Slide Rock State Park and burning northward, up the canyon into places such as West Fork and Harding Point.
Today:
Crews continued to hold the fire west of Highway 89A and south of Fry Canyon. A small spot fire occurred across the northern line into an area that was previously thinned in 2006. Because this area was previously treated, the spot fire was unable to grow and crews quickly extinguished it. Hotshot crews also worked to create fire line across the Pumphouse Wash near the Hwy 89A ‘switchbacks’ to control the east flank and prevent further spread east. Winds increased to 18-22mph with gusts of 32, temperatures were in the 70s. As the day continued to warm, firefighters saw an increase in fire behavior, with the most active portion of the fire toward the northwest to Harding Point. Firefighters observed active fire in the East Pocket area, but previously dropped retardant was able to help control growth.
Tonight:
Firefighters will be working throughout the lower canyon to monitor fire activity and conduct burnout operations as necessary. Overnight downslope winds will likely continue to drive the fire down canyon. Erratic winds may also be present producing moderate to high fire behavior. Crews will continue to work along FSR 535 and FSR 231 preparing for additional burnout operations tomorrow.
Size: Approximately 7,500 acres.
Containment: 5%
Location: Originated just about 4 to 5 miles north of Sedona, just north of Slide Rock State Park.
Date Reported: Tuesday, May 20 at approximately 4 p.m.
Cause: Human caused, under investigation
Law Enforcement is seeking any information the public may have regarding the start of the Slide Fire and anyone of suspicion in the area on the day the fire started between Slide Rock State Park and Half Way Picnic Area. The public should call Forest Service Law Enforcement at 928-527-3511 if they have any information that might assist law enforcement in the investigation.
Structures Threatened: Approximately 300 structures, private homes as well vacation resort cabins and a Forest Service lookout tower.
Injuries: No injuries reported.
Current Resources: Approximately 840 personnel including 15 hotshot crews, 33 engines, three air tankers, five helicopters, two air attack, and other resources.
Closures:
· Highway 89A from Sedona to Fort Tuthill in Flagstaff
· Forest Road (FR) 535 at Highway 89A
· FR 533 at Highway 89A
· FR 231 at Rogers Lake
· FR 527 and 530 (west side; Volunteer Canyon area)
· Casner Mountain is closed to all vehicles
Evacuations: Evacuations remain in place in Oak Creek Canyon from Slide Rock State Park to Sterling Springs Hatchery. Coconino County issued a pre-evacuation notice to residents of Kachina Village and Forest Highlands subdivisions. Residents are advised to be prepared to evacuate. County Emergency Management encourages those in the affected neighborhoods to begin packing important items they may need for several days. These items include prescriptions, important papers, any special dietary needs and pets. No new evacuations are in place at this time.
Coconino County is reminding people to register their cellphone number with the County’s CodeRED emergency notification system at www.coconino.az.gov/emergency. Only those residents whose numbers are registered will receive a direct phone call about any type of pre- or mandatory evacuation order.
UPDATE 5/22 8:10 P.M. From the USFS:
Evening Update:
Crews continued to hold the fire west of Highway 89A and south of Fry Canyon. A small spot fire occurred across the northern line into an area that was previously thinned in 2006. Because this area was previously treated, the spot fire was unable to grow and crews quickly extinguished it. Hotshot crews also worked to create fire line across the Pumphouse Wash near the Hwy 89A ‘switchbacks’ to control the east flank and prevent further spread east. Winds increased to 18-22mph with gusts of 32, temperatures were in the 70s. As the day continued to warm, firefighters saw an increase in fire behavior, with the most active portion of the fire toward the northwest to Harding Point. Firefighters observed active fire in the East Pocket area, but previously dropped retardant helped firefighters minimize growth.
Tonight Firefighters will be working throughout the lower canyon to monitor fire activity and conduct burnout operations as necessary. Overnight downslope winds will likely continue to drive the fire down canyon. Erratic winds may also be present producing moderate fire behavior. Crews will conduct burnout operations along FSR 535 and prepare FSR 231 for continued burnout operations tomorrow.
Approximately 7,500 acres, 5% contained
UPDATE 5/22 7:25 P.M. From Coconino County:
“Good evening -
This is an update on the #Slidefire from tonight’s community meeting.
•There are currently 850 personnel on the fire and no structures have been lost.
•Today there was a wind shift and the fire was pushed into the Secret Mountain wilderness and the team was successful in stopping the spread up the slopes.
•The pre-evacuation for Kachina and Forest Highlands is still in place.
•Smoke is continuing to be monitored in Flagstaff and surrounding communities.”
UPDATE 5/22 7:00 P.M. Post PIO Conference recap:
• If evacuations are ordered, officers will go door to door. Residents should prepare to be gone 3-5 days. NO EVACS IN ORDER RIGHT NOW EXCEPT FOR RESIDENTS BETWEEN SLIDE ROCK AND FISH HATCHERY.
• According to forest officials, 7,500 to 8,000 acres have burned thus far
• no structures damaged as of 6pm
• Plan is to go around west fork. Fire fighter safety keeps them from going down into west fork. The fire that is pushing towards Kachina Village is still a threat. Firefighters are diligently working to guard the 535 road from crossover.
• 18 people at the Red Cross Emergency shelter
• The fire is now pushing to the west north-west
• If fire gets to pumphouse wash…evacs will be ordered
• Containment is between 1 and 10 percent at this time. Awaiting confirmed number to be released tomorrow.
•Wind and steep terrain are challenges. Wet weather may help starting tomorrow.
•NO more donations are needed for this fire effort! PIO urged that they have more than enough food and drink.
UPDATE 5/22 6:30 P.M. LIVE FEED OF PUBLIC MEETING
http://www.myfoxphoenix.com/category/234796/live-video2
UPDATE 5/22 5:30 P.M. OFFICIAL FAQ FROM COCONINO COUNTY:
Slide Fire Information
Frequently Asked Questions – May 22, 2014
1. Has there been an evacuation notice given? The only evacuation notice given is for the residents within Oak Creek Canyon north of Slide Rock State Park. There has been a “Pre-Evacuation” notice given to the residents of the Kachina Village and Forest Highlands neighborhoods.
2. How do I receive emergency notifications by phone or email in the event of an evacuation or other extreme event? Go to the County Website at Coconino.az.gov/emergency and enroll in the County’s emergency response system: CodeRed.
3. Where do I go if I get an evacuation notice? The American Red Cross has set up an emergency shelter at Sinagua Middle School is located at 3950 E Butler Avenue in Flagstaff. Sinagua Middle School is located near Interstate 40 and the Butler Ave Exit. If traveling East on Interstate 40, take a right on Butler Avenue.
4. Can I bring my pets to the shelter? The emergency shelter does not have the capacity for pets, however, the County Public Health District has arranged shelters for pets and livestock. The Coconino Humane Association (526-1076) located at 3501 E. Butler Ave in Flagstaff will take small pets such as dogs and cats. Olsen’s Grain (526-3556) located at 11705 N. Hwy. 89 (near Timberline and Summitt Fire) will take larger animals. (*From FLAGscanner, we have also compiled a list of 37 places for evacuees to take their livestock. Hauling assistance is also offered. If you need help, email us at breakingnews@flagscanner.com or call 928-637-6112)
5. What should I bring to the shelter? Space will be limited at the shelter for personal items. Please bring any important documents, prescriptions and any special dietary foods needed. See the County emergency preparedness website www.coconino.az.gov/emergency for any further tips on how to prepare for an evacuation notice.
6. How will friends and family know that I am safe if I am evacuated? Residents are encouraged to register at the Red Cross shelter or online at redcross.org/safeandwell.
7. Can I volunteer or donate? Volunteers are encouraged to register by email to the United Way of Northern Arizona at volunteer@nazunitedway.org or call Carol Dykes at 928-773-9813 (day) or 928-853-7134 (evening). They can also text to 95577.
Donations of money can be made directly to the Red Cross by going to redcross.org or people can go to the shelter at Sinagua Middle School where there are donation envelopes. There is no current need for donations of clothing or household goods.
Donations can also be made to the local Salvation Army at salvationarmyflagstaff.org
8. There is a lot of smoke in my neighborhood. Are there associated health risks involved? The County Public Health Services District will issue a Smoke Advisory if and when indicated by air quality measurements. The Public Health District advises the public that if they feel ill as a result of wildfire smoke to please take necessary precautions. Some tips for those who feel ill would be to stay indoors, use a HEPA filter, limit your activities and contact your health care provider for additional instructions.
Please see http://az-coconinocounty.civicplus.com/DocumentCenter/View/6531 for further prevention tips. You can also find air quality standards at the Arizona Department of Air Quality (ADEQ) website at: http://www.phoenixvis.net/PPMmain.aspx.
9. Is there a Slide Fire hotline to call or a place where can I get regular updates? Residents are encouraged to call the hotline at 928.679.4173 to speak with a live volunteer for up-to-date fire information (Please do not call “911” at this time for fire information).
UPDATE 5/22 5:10 P.M.
Unfortunately, National Fire PIO’s have not provided any official updates regarding size, containment, and progress since 7 am this morning. Our only guess is this is due to a new Type 1 national incident command staff taking over the management side of things, as opposed to local PIO’s handling media requests yesterday. What we can say is this. KNXV TV in Phoenix reported that the fire was now over 5000 acres. We have been unable to verify that information. Winds have shifted thorughout the day, but have not caused intense runs like they did yesterday. Firefighters definitely have the upper hand on the fire. MODIS maps show fire activity moving to the north. These fires could also be fires set by crews as burnout and fire line efforts. With that said, the MODIS maps are NOT the most accurate in terms of fire spread. Figure A shows this. Figure B is the latest fire boundary map as of this writing.
Figure A. Click to enlarge.
An approximate 2 to 3-mile stretch of area from Slide Rock State Park north toward the Sterling Springs Hatchery has been evacuated, as well as the East Pocket Forest Service Lookout Tower. Evacuees are being relocated to Sinagua Middle School in Flagstaff.
Basic Information
Incident Type Wildfire
Cause Unknown
Date of Origin Tuesday May 20th, 2014 approx. 04:00 PM
Location Oak Creek Canyon, south of Flagstaff
Current Situation
Total Personnel 840
Size 4,830 acres
Fuels Involved
Timber, past fuel treatments in area
Fire Behavior
Extreme fire behavior has been observed.
Figure B. Click to enlarge.
Significant Events
Fire retardant was used heavily in steep terrain yesterday along the west flank with good results.
Outlook
Planned Actions
Potential burnout operations along upper 89A ‘switchbacks’ to hold the northeast fire flank. SE winds may increase fire behavior to the NW to Harding Point.
Growth Potential
Potentially active today to the NW near Harding Point.
Terrain Difficulty
Steep slopes, canyon, very difficult terrain
Remarks
Efforts continue today on holding fire west of HWY 89A. Firing operations expected to continue.
Current Weather
Wind Conditions 21 mph SE
Temperature 59 degrees
Humidity 13%
UPDATE 5/22 3:20 P.M. flights to and from Flagstaff:
According to information obtained from US Airways Headquarters, flights between Phoenix and Flagstaff, have resumed. Prior to this announcement, the airline had cancelled 12 flights due to visibility conditions.
UPDATE 5/22 2:50 P.M. Sent by the USFS:
Nothing new in terms of size and containment.
A community meeting will be held this evening at 6 p.m. at the Sinagua Middle School
Crews are continuing to hold the fire west of Highway 89A and south of Fry Canyon. Burnout operations have been conducted south of FSR 535 to create a larger fire break north east of the fire. Hotshot crews are also working to create fire line across the Pump House Wash near the 89A ‘switchbacks’ to control the east flank and prevent further spread east. Winds have become lighter today, with temperatures in the low 70s. As the day continues to warm, firefighters expect increased fire behavior, with the most active portion of the fire toward the northwest to Harding Point.
Heavy smoke is likely again in the greater Flagstaff area, Williams as well as Sedona and Oak Creek Canyon. Residents and motorists are asked to use caution as visibility may be limited at times.
For more information on road conditions and visibility visit Arizona Department of Transportation on Twitter: @arizonaDOT, on their 511 information page: http://www.az511.com/adot/files/traffic/ and you can call their information phone line at 1-888-411-7623
For information on air quality, please visit Arizona Department of Environmental Quality at: http://phoenixvis.net/ppmmain.aspx
No new information regarding size and containment at this time.
Law Enforcement is seeking any information the public may have regarding the start of the Slide Fire and anyone of suspicion in the area yesterday between Slide Rock State Park and Half Way Picnic Area. The public should call Forest Service Law Enforcement at 928-527-3511 if they have any information that might assist law enforcement in the investigation.
Closures:
• Highway 89A from Sedona to Fort Tuthill in Flagstaff
• Forest Road (FR) 535 at Highway 89A
• FR 533 at Highway 89A
• FR 231 at Rogers Lake
• FR 527 and 530 (west side; Volunteer Canyon area)
• Casner Mountain is closed to all vehicles
Evacuations: Evacuations remain in place in Oak Creek Canyon from Slide Rock State Park to Sterling Springs Hatchery. Pre-evacuation notice continues for residents of Kachina Village and Forest Highlands. Residents are advised to be prepared to evacuate. County Emergency Management encourages those in the affected neighborhoods to begin packing important items they may need for several days. These items include prescriptions, important papers, any special dietary needs and pets. No new evacuations are in place at this time.
Coconino County is reminding people to register their cellphone number with the County’s CodeRED emergency notification system at www.coconino.az.gov/emergency. Only those residents whose numbers are registered will receive a direct phone call about any type of pre- or mandatory evacuation order.
Also from the Flagstaff Police Department:
Flagstaff Police Department would like to take a moment to thank our community for its generous offers for donations, volunteer hours, and resources while providing assistance to our partner agencies and communities during the Slide Fire. Many of the calls into the call center at the Emergency Operations Center were offers of donations and assistance. We also received information on individuals soliciting donations on behalf of the relief efforts.
Although there are many ways to help during this kind of incident people should be cautious when donating to individuals or organizations that are not established or well-known during the time frames of the emergency. Many of these unrecognized entities mean well and use donations appropriately but it is nearly impossible to distinguish between these entities and criminals who would take advantage of your generous donations.
Many opportunities to help are provided by well- known and established organizations like the Red Cross, the Salvation Army, and United Way. They have established protocols to collect donations and volunteer participation for events. For more information on how you may help refer to the following websites:
www.nazunitedway.org
www.salvationarmyusa.org
www.redcross.org
UPDATE 5/22 1:18 P.M.: sent by the USFS
Crews are continuing to hold the fire west of Highway 89A and south of Fry Canyon. Burnout operations have been conducted south of FSR 535 to create a larger fire break north east of the fire.
Hotshot crews are also working to create fire line across the Pump House Wash near the 89A ‘switchbacks’ to control the east flank and prevent further spread east. Winds have become lighter today, with temperatures in the low 70s.
As the day continues to warm, firefighters expect increased fire behavior, with the most active portion of the fire toward the northwest to Harding Point.
Heavy smoke is likely again in the greater Flagstaff area, Williams as well as Sedona and Oak Creek Canyon. Residents and motorists are asked to use caution as visibility may be limited at times.
No new information regarding size and containment at this time.
All closures and evacuations remain the same.
UPDATE 5/22 1:00 P.M.:
No major updates have come to us from fire managers as of this writing. A community meeting will be held tonight, at the Sinagua Middle School in Flagstaff at 6:00 P.M.
Listening to the scanner feeds at http://flagscanner.com/live-scanners/public-feeds/ its evident that the air tankers are over the fire and doing numerous drops every hour. Ground activity sounds busy as well. Map data still shows the same boundaries as we provided in our 10:15 a.m. update.
More donation sites have popped up. 96.7 The WOLF & Terry Marxen Chevrolet have teamed up to support our firefighters! Donate supplies to our firefighters! These crew members are risking their lives to save our pristine community. Let’s show them our appreciation by donating supplies that can be easily consumed on the run, such as water, Gatorade, power bars, trail mix, beef jerky, and fruit. They are in need of encouragement and good spirits! You can drop supplies at the 96.7 The WOLF Studios in Flagstaff & Prescott, Sedona Fire Station #1 (2860 Southwest Drive Sedona, AZ) or the Visitor Center (331 Forest Road)
Also, the following message was posted by Coconino County regarding air quality.
Smoke from the Slide Fire located south of Flagstaff in Oak Creek Canyon continues to affect several communities in Northern Arizona.
Wildfire smoke is a mixture of small particles, gases and water vapor. The primary health concern is the small particles. Not everyone who is exposed to smoke will have health problems. Many factors influence a person’s susceptibility to smoke. These factors include the level, extent, and duration of exposure, age, and individual susceptibility.
Anyone who can see, taste or smell smoke should curtail outdoor activity. People with heart disease, lung disease or asthma should avoid the outdoors entirely, as should children and the elderly.
Typical symptoms of exposure to smoke include burning eyes, runny nose, scratchy throat, headaches, dizziness and nausea.
Closing windows and turning off evaporative coolers when smoke is present helps to reduce exposure to the smoke and should be adequate to protect persons without respiratory problems.
People with pre-existing conditions should avoid exposure to the smoke as much as possible, and consult their physician if they have any questions.
When smoke levels are high, the appropriate protective measures should be followed.
• Stay inside with windows and doors shut.
• Use the recycle or re-circulate mode on the air conditioner in your home or car.
• Avoid cooking and vacuuming, which can increase pollutants indoors.
• Avoid physical exertion.
Visit www.coconino.az.gov/health for more information. You can also visit the website for the Arizona Department of Environmental Quality (ADEQ) athttp://www.phoenixvis.net/PPMmain.aspx
Size: 4,830 acres.
Containment: 0%
Location: Originated just about 4 to 5 miles north of Sedona, just north of Slide Rock State Park.
Date Reported: Tuesday, May 20 at approximately 4 p.m.
Cause: Human caused, under investigation
Law Enforcement is seeking any information the public may have regarding the start of the Slide Fire and anyone of suspicion in the area yesterday between Slide Rock State Park and Half Way Picnic Area. The public should call Forest Service Law Enforcement at 928-527-3511 if they have any information that might assist law enforcement in the investigation.
Structures Threatened: Approximately 300 structures, private homes as well vacation resort cabins and a Forest Service lookout tower.
Injuries: No injuries reported.
Current Resources: Approximately 840 personnel including 15 hotshot crews, 33 engines, three air tankers, five helicopters, two air attack, and other resources.
Closures:
• Highway 89A from Sedona to Fort Tuthill in Flagstaff
• Forest Road (FR) 535 at Highway 89A
• FR 533 at Highway 89A
• FR 231 at Rogers Lake
• FR 527 and 530 (west side; Volunteer Canyon area)
• Casner Mountain is closed to all vehicles
Evacuations: Evacuations remain in place in Oak Creek Canyon from Slide Rock State Park to Sterling Springs Hatchery. Coconino County issued a pre-evacuation notice to residents of Kachina Village and Forest Highlands subdivisions. Residents are advised to be prepared to evacuate. County Emergency Management encourages those in the affected neighborhoods to begin packing important items they may need for several days. These items include prescriptions, important papers, any special dietary needs and pets. No new evacuations are in place at this time.
Coconino County is reminding people to register their cellphone number with the County’s CodeRED emergency notification system at www.coconino.az.gov/emergency. Only those residents whose numbers are registered will receive a direct phone call about any type of pre- or mandatory evacuation order.
UPDATE 5/22 10:15 A.M. :
Fire Managers saying they are making significant progress on the fire! An updated official boundary area can be seen in figure A. Figure B is the latest Remote Sensing Data maps provided by the USDA.
The fire is still at 0% containment as of this writing.
Findlay Volkswagen Flagstaff has teamed up with Cox Media to be a drop off point for donations for the firefighters, support staff, and victims of the Slide Fire. Please bring your donations to 5160 N Test Dr in the Flagstaff Auto Park. Currently in need of bottled water, Gatorade, non perishable food items, and pet food.
Figure A. Click to enlarge.
The The Arizona Department of Environmental Quality (ADEQ) has placed a remote sensor in the Sedona Area. Its readings indicate unhealthy Air Quality Index (AQI) readings in the Sedona area. More can be found at http://www.phoenixvis.net/PPMmain.aspx
Size: 4,830 acres.
Containment: 0%
Location: Originated just about 4 to 5 miles north of Sedona, just north of Slide Rock State Park.
Date Reported: Tuesday, May 20 at approximately 4 p.m.
Cause: Human caused, under investigation
Law Enforcement is seeking any information the public may have regarding the start of the Slide Fire and anyone of suspicion in the area yesterday between Slide Rock State Park and Half Way Picnic Area. The public should call Forest Service Law Enforcement at 928-527-3511 if they have any information that might assist law enforcement in the investigation.
Structures Threatened: Approximately 300 structures, private homes as well vacation resort cabins and a Forest Service lookout tower.
Injuries: No injuries reported.
Current Resources: Approximately 840 personnel including 15 hotshot crews, 33 engines, three air tankers, five helicopters, two air attack, and other resources.
Figure B. Click to enlarge.
Closures:
• Highway 89A from Sedona to Fort Tuthill in Flagstaff
• Forest Road (FR) 535 at Highway 89A
• FR 533 at Highway 89A
• FR 231 at Rogers Lake
• FR 527 and 530 (west side; Volunteer Canyon area)
• Casner Mountain is closed to all vehicles
Evacuations: Evacuations remain in place in Oak Creek Canyon from Slide Rock State Park to Sterling Springs Hatchery. Coconino County issued a pre-evacuation notice to residents of Kachina Village and Forest Highlands subdivisions. Residents are advised to be prepared to evacuate. County Emergency Management encourages those in the affected neighborhoods to begin packing important items they may need for several days. These items include prescriptions, important papers, any special dietary needs and pets. No new evacuations are in place at this time.
Coconino County is reminding people to register their cellphone number with the County’s CodeRED emergency notification system at www.coconino.az.gov/emergency. Only those residents whose numbers are registered will receive a direct phone call about any type of pre- or mandatory evacuation order.
UPDATE 5/22 8:00 A:M: According to the National Interagency Coordination Center Incident Management Situation Report as of this morning, the Slide fire had a total of 848 total personnel assigned to the fire, 30 crews, 33 engines, 9 helicopters and a handful of fixed wing aircraft. This fire is estimated to have cost at least $250,000.00 thus far…that number will definitely rise.
Today’s fire weather forecast indicates that there is a very slight chance for rain. Lets keep our fingers crossed. Below is the actual forecast given to the fire crews on scene.
FOR TODAY...AN APPROACHING LOW PRESSURE SYSTEM WILL
DRAW MID LEVEL MOISTURE INTO EASTERN ARIZONA. THIS COMBINED WITH
MODEST INSTABILITY WILL BRING A CHANCE OF HIGH BASED SHOWERS AND
THUNDERSTORMS TO APACHE COUNTY AND A SLIGHT CHANCE ALONG THE
MOGOLLON RIM AS FAR EAST AS FLAGSTAFF. GUSTY ERRATIC WINDS ARE
PROBABLE NEAR ANY SHOWERS OR THUNDERSTORMS...OTHERWISE EXPECT BREEZY
SOUTH WINDS FOR TODAY. NOTE THE VERY DEEP MIXING HEIGHTS THIS AFTERNOON.
ON FRIDAY...THE UPPER LOW WILL BE CENTERED OVER CENTRAL ARIZONA...LEADING
TO GREATER CHANCES AND COVERAGE OF PRIMARILY HIGH BASED SHOWERS AND
THUNDERSTORMS. AT THIS TIME
WETTING PRECIP AMOUNTS ARE NOT EXPECTED THROUGH SUNSET FRIDAY ACROSS
NORTHERN ARIZONA.
SATURDAY THROUGH MONDAY...CHANCES FOR SHOWERS AND AFTERNOON
THUNDERSTORMS WILL REMAIN FOR SATURDAY AS THE UPPER LOW MOVES SLOWLY
EASTWARD. ON SUNDAY...THE LOW CENTER MOVES INTO NEW MEXICO WITH
DRIER NORTHERLY FLOW ALOFT HERE. EXPECT CLEARING CONDITIONS FROM
WEST TO EAST. EXPECT VERY DRY AND WARM CONDITIONS MONDAY.
AZZ115-222330-
WESTERN MOGOLLON RIM