Category: Public Safety

Kaibab National Forest to lift fire restrictions Sept. 4

by Community Contributor • September 3, 2025 • Comments Off

WILLIAMS — Due to an increase in rainfall over the last several days, the Kaibab National Forest will lift all fire restrictions at 8:00 a.m. Thursday, September 4, 2025.
Fire managers continually evaluate conditions across the forest to help determine when to implement and rescind fire restrictions. The forest has received enough widespread rain to increase fuel moisture and decrease the risk of severe fire.
To help prevent human-caused fires, forest visitors should always be vigilant while visiting the forest, regardless of restriction levels.

Grand Canyon Weekly Wrap-up: Aug. 25-29, 2025

by Community Contributor • August 29, 2025 • Comments Off

Dragon Bravo Fire Update – Aug. 28

The Dragon Bravo Fire remains at 145,504 acres and 64% containment, with 654 personnel assigned. Crews continue to make progress removing hazard trees along Hwy. 67 and other roads, with an average of 15 truckloads hauled out each day. Suppression repair, mop-up, and patrols are ongoing, and no additional fire growth is expected.

With the fire stabilized, attention is turning to post-fire impacts. The DOI Burned Area Emergency Response (BAER) Team is now on-site in the park, while the U.S. Forest Service BAER Team is working on the Kaibab National Forest.

Single lane closures scheduled on San Francisco St in early September

by Community Contributor • August 29, 2025 • Comments Off

FLAGSTAFF — As part of the City’s annual Road Repair and Street Safety (RRSS) program, single lane closures are scheduled on N San Francisco St from Sept. 2 – 8 for street paving and pavement marking. The work may also necessitate short term closures of intersections along N San Francisco St between W Cherry Ave and W Columbus Ave. Motorists are asked to follow marked signage, be cautious of work crews, and expect delays when traveling through the project area.

Snowbowl Road to temporarily close Sept. 6

by Community Contributor • August 29, 2025 • Comments Off

FLAGSTAFF — Snowbowl Road (Forest Road [FR] 516) will close from 6 a.m. to noon Saturday Sept. 6 to accommodate the annual Climb to Conquer Cancer event.

Electronic road signs will be posted to remind motorists of the temporary closure.

While Snowbowl Road will remain open before and after the closure window, drivers are asked to remain alert and cautious. Event coordinators and sponsors will be using the road to initiate event setup in the days leading up to the event.

U.S. Sen. Ruben Gallego (D-AZ) news updates for August 2025

by Community Contributor • August 29, 2025 • Comments Off

Office of U.S. Sen. Ruben Gallego

Latest news updates for August 2025

Gallego Leads Colleagues in Demanding Answers from Navy Federal Credit Union on Overdraft Fees

Gallego Backs Bill to Reverse GOP Energy Tax Hike and Cut Americans’ Electricity Costs

Gallego Backs Legislation to Cap the Cost of Prescription Medication

MORE …

U.S. Sen. Mark Kelly (D-AZ) news updates for August 2025

by Community Contributor • August 29, 2025 • Comments Off

Office of U.S. Sen. Mark Kelly

Latest news updates for August 2025

Kelly, Gallego Demand Answers on Trump Administration’s Weakening of U.S. Cyber Agency Following Arizona Election Cyberattack

Kelly Calls Out Trump Administration for Funding Cuts Threatening Community Colleges

Kelly, Arizona Lawmakers Demand Full and Immediate Disbursement of Solar for All Funds

Arizona Attorney General Kris Mayes news updates for August 2025

by Community Contributor • August 29, 2025 • Comments Off

Office Arizona Attorney General Kris Mayes

Latest news updates for August 2025

Attorney General Mayes Wins Lawsuit Against Trump Administration, Stops $184 Million Cut to AmeriCorps Service Programs

Attorney General Mayes Announces Two Convictions for ESA Program Fraud

Attorney General Mayes Sues Hefty® Parent Company for Misleading Arizona Consumers

Attorney General Mayes Secures Full Relief for Arizona Schools in Lawsuit Challenging Withholding of Education Funding

Attorney General Mayes Joins 44 States in Demanding Tech Companies End Predatory AI Interactions with Kids

Attorney General Mayes Sues Operators of Real Estate Scam Targeting Elderly Arizonans

MORE …

Dragon Bravo Fire Incident Update for Aug. 27, 2025

by Community Contributor • August 27, 2025 • Comments Off

Acres: 145,504 Containment: 64% Personnel: 646

Start Date: July 4, 2025 Cause: Lightning Location: Grand Canyon North Rim

Current Situation: With fire activity minimized due to several days of precipitation, crews are focused primarily on the large task of removing hazards and rehabilitating the Kaibab National Forest and Grand Canyon National Park lands to as much of a pre-fire condition as possible while reducing further impacts in the future.

Areas of County around Coconino National Forest adjust fire restrictions. Moving to Stage 1 on Aug. 27

by Community Contributor • August 26, 2025 • Comments Off

COCONINO COUNTY — After consultation with the United States Forest Service (USFS), areas of Coconino County within the boundaries of the Coconino National Forest will move to Stage 1 fire restrictions effective Wednesday, August 27, 2025, at 8 a.m.

This decision, according to Coconino County’s Wildfire Defense Ordinance, will apply to all private property within, and adjacent to, the boundaries of the Coconino National Forest.

Interagency Burned Area Emergency Response (BAER) teams complete Soil Burn Severity map for Dragon Bravo Fire

by Community Contributor • August 25, 2025 • Comments Off

BAER SAFETY MESSAGE: Everyone near and downstream from the burned areas should remain alert and stay updated on weather conditions that may result in heavy rains and increased water runoff. Flash flooding may occur quickly during heavy rain events be prepared to act. Current weather and emergency notifications can be found at the National Weather Service website. NWS Flagstaff, AZ

Dragon Bravo Fire Update for Aug. 22, 2025

by Community Contributor • August 22, 2025 • Comments Off

Highlights: On the northernmost portion of the fire, suppression repair work is nearly complete. Equipment operators are progressing toward the south to continue their work. Chipping groups are working across the west side, and hazard tree removal progressed on the southern portions of the fire. The Kaibab National Forest reduced the size of the temporary forest closure on the North Kaibab Ranger District on August 19, 2025. Western portions of the district are now open to public access and the closure boundary is comprised of a series of forest roads between the Jacob Lake area and Timp Point.

DOI Burned Area Emergency Response Team begins to assess post-fire impacts at Grand Canyon National Park

by Community Contributor • August 22, 2025 • Comments Off

GRAND CANYON, Ariz. – A multi-agency Department of the Interior (DOI) Burned Area Emergency Response (BAER) Team is beginning work this week to assess the impacts of the Dragon Bravo Fire on National Park Service and Bureau of Land Management lands. This process involves identifying the values at risk, determining any post-fire impacts to those values, and prescribing treatments to mitigate impacts.

Forest Service Burned Area Emergency Response team assessing fire severity from the Dragon Bravo Fire on the Kaibab National Forest

by Community Contributor • August 22, 2025 • Comments Off

FREDONIA — A U S Forest Service Burned Area Emergency Response (BAER) team, led by Eric Schroder, has begun making burned area surveys of the Kaibab National Forest. BAER team assessments are rapid evaluations of post-fire conditions of the burned landscape to determine the level of risk from potential flooding and debris flow to values on National Forest System lands. If unacceptable risks are found the team recommends appropriate and effective emergency stabilization measures to reduce the risks to national forest lands and values. BAER emergency stabilization efforts are focused on the protection of human life and safety, property, and critical cultural and natural resources.

Open house invitation for Community Wildfire Protection Plan for Rural Fire Districts and Tribal Com

by Community Contributor • August 20, 2025 • Comments Off

OCONINO COUNTY — Please join the Greater Flagstaff Forests Partnership (GFFP), Coconino County and your local fire departments/districts at five distinct community meetings in support of the development of a countywide Community Wildfire Protection Plan (CWPP).

The dates and locations of each unique community meeting are listed below.

Coconino County — SBA activates loan program for northern Arizona and southern Utah businesses

by Community Contributor • August 20, 2025 • Comments Off

“As fire crews were on the ground, Coconino County was also thinking about economic recovery assistance for businesses who rely on tourism both on the North Rim and South Rim of the Grand Canyon,” said County Manager Andy Bertelsen. “The loss of the infrastructure at the North Rim and the fires impact on tourism have definitely affected the economy of northern Arizona. Coconino County took proactive steps to begin a process for federal resources to be made available to businesses throughout our county and surrounding counties.”

Kaibab National Forest to enter Stage 2 Fire Restrictions, reduce North Kaibab closure area

by Community Contributor • August 20, 2025 • Comments Off

FREDONIA — The Kaibab National Forest is reducing the temporary forest closure on the North Kaibab Ranger Districts. Beginning Tuesday, August 19, western portions of the district will reopen to public access. Fire behavior on Dragon Bravo has decreased, containment has increased, and fire crews have shifted focus to suppression repair, allowing large areas of the National Forest to be reopened without compromising fire operations or public safety.

Volunteers still needed for Coconino County Summer Point In Time (PIT) Count on Aug. 27-29

by Community Contributor • August 19, 2025 • Comments Off

COCONINO COUNTY — Volunteers are still needed. We are very excited to be conducting a Summer 2025 PIT Count here next week! See the flyer and QR code attached or the link to view the sign-up sheet! Please note that shifts vary in both location and length of time. More details for each specific location are to come.

Dragon Bravo Fire update for Aug. 19, 2025

by Community Contributor • August 19, 2025 • Comments Off

Highlights: The Kaibab National Forest is reducing the temporary forest closure on the North Kaibab Ranger Districts. Beginning Tuesday, August 19, western portions of the district will reopen to public access. The new closure boundary connects a series of National Forest System Roads (NFSR) between the Jacob Lake area and Timp Point. The boundary line was designed to maximize public access while providing for the safety of forest visitors and wildfire personnel.

Woods Fire (east of Oak Creek) at 50 percent containment

by Community Contributor • August 15, 2025 • Comments Off

SEDONA — Firefighters working on the Woods Fire have been successful in suppressing and securing the perimeter around the wildfire, achieving 50% containment and will transition to a local Type 4 organization tomorrow morning.

A more accurate mapping of the wildfire located 2 miles east of the Village of Oak Creek puts it at 59 acres. It has been determined to be a lightning-caused fire.

High humidity provided favorable conditions for firefighters, allowing use of natural landscape and human-made barriers to keep the fire within its existing footprint.

Grand Canyon Weekly Wrap-up: Aug. 11-15, 2025

by Community Contributor • August 15, 2025 • Comments Off

Brighty prepares for his journey to the South Rim, where he will be stored in the park’s Museum Collections until a decision is made on his future. Whether he will be restored to his former appearance or replaced entirely is still under consideration. (NPS Photo)

Dragon Bravo Fire Aug. 15th Update

by Community Contributor • August 15, 2025 • Comments Off

Highlights: Yesterday, containment of the Dragon Bravo Fire increased to 56%. More containment was gained on the Wahalla Plateau, Point Imperial and on the most northern tip of the fire. The National Weather Service Office in Flagstaff has issued a flash flood watch in the fire area between 10am and 8pm today. With safety being the top priority, crews will be ready to adjust to potentially dangerous weather conditions that may develop. To receive flash flood warnings on your cell phone or satellite device via the Grand Canyon River Alerts system. Text GCRIVERALERTS to 928-707-7842.

Public input requested on candidates for Superior Court Division 6 Judge Pro Tempore

by Community Contributor • August 11, 2025 • Comments Off

COCONINO COUNTY — The public is invited to comment on three candidates for the Division 6 Judge Pro Tempore vacancy on the Superior Court in Coconino County.

The candidates are Jonathon Kircher, Roberta McVickers and Bryan Shea.

Tim Carter appointed Coconino County Emergency Management Director

by Community Contributor • August 8, 2025 • Comments Off

Carter is a Certified Emergency Manager with a master’s degree in emergency management and homeland security. He has more than 13 years of service with Coconino County and more than two decades of public safety experience.

“Tim has demonstrated leadership in disaster response, hazard mitigation, stakeholder engagement and public outreach,” Coconino County Manager Andy Bertelsen said. “He is a strong leader who excels in interagency coordination, and we are fortunate to have him on our team.”

Kaibab NF to enter Stage 2 Fire Restrictions, reduce North Kaibab closure area

by Community Contributor • August 6, 2025 • Comments Off

FREDONIA — On Friday, August 8, the Forest Service will reopen a portion of the North Kaibab Ranger District, which has been closed in its entirety due to the White Sage and Dragon Bravo fires. In addition, Stage 2 Fire Restrictions will go into effect for the North Kaibab and Tusayan ranger districts.

Dragon Bravo Fire Update for Aug. 6, 2025

by AmigosNAZ.com • August 6, 2025 • Comments Off

Community meeting for the Dragon Bravo Fire to be held in Page tonight Daily Update for August 6, 2025 Fire Information Phone: 928-268-5610 (8 a.m. to 8 p.m.) Media Phone: 928-465-7561 Acres: 130,520 Location: Grand Canyon North Rim Personnel: 1,343…

White Sage Fire Daily Update – Aug. 1, 2025

by Community Contributor • August 1, 2025 • Comments Off

Fireﬁghters are successfully repairing suppression lines. Resources continue to patrol the ﬁre and backhaul equipment. A Burned Area Emergency Response (BAER) team of interdisciplinary professionals has begun evaluating ﬁre impacts to determine rehabilitation needs and strategies. The Color Country Type 3 Team is coordinating closely with the North Kaibab Ranger District, BLM Arizona Strip District, and local cooperators to meet the needs of the changing ﬁre conditions.

Dragon Bravo Fire Update for Aug. 1, 2025

by Community Contributor • August 1, 2025 • Comments Off

Highlights: Infrared mapping confirmed updated acreage as the Dragon Bravo Fire continues pushing north, particularly into the burn scar of the 2006 Warm Fire. Air resources worked to slow fire spread in that area. Night operations focused on holding containment lines near Forest Road 610 and progressing south toward State Route 67.

Firing operations continued to steer the fire away from values at risk in Grand Canyon National Park and the Kaibab National Forest and minimize impacts to infrastructure, including the Kaibab Lodge area. Firefighters got a slight reprieve as cloud coverage helped to moderate fire activity.

U.S. Sen. Ruben Gallego (D-AZ) news updates for July 2025

by Community Contributor • August 1, 2025 • Comments Off

Office of U.S. Sen. Ruben Gallego

News updates for July 2025 (This Week)

• Gallego Introduces Resolution Reaffirming ICE Cannot Arrest or Deport U.S. Citizens

• Following Passage of Republican Tax Bill, Gallego Fights to Restore CFPB Funding, Protect Consumers from Scams

• Gallego and Homeland Security Democrats Push Justice Department to Produce Epstein Files

• Gallego’s Shadow Wolves Bill Passes Committee Unanimously

• Gallego, Fetterman Reintroduce Bill Allowing DACA Recipients to Join the Military

• Gallego, Justice Introduce Bipartisan Bill to Protect Americans’ Access to Quality Customer Service, Preserve U.S. Jobs

• ICYMI: Gallego Demands Answers from Delta CEO as Company Moves Toward AI Pricing Model

• Gallego Shapes Bipartisan Housing Bill in Senate Banking Committee

• Gallego, Colleagues Call for Large-Scale Expansion of Humanitarian Aid in Gaza and Resumption of Diplomatic Efforts to Secure a Ceasefire and End the War

• Gallego, Kelly, Stanton, Ansari Call on Trump Administration to Preserve Federal Support for College Readiness Programs in Arizona

• Gallego Backs Bill to Boost Supply of Doctors, Ensure Access to Medical Care

• Following Calls from Gallego, Kelly, Stanton, and Ansari, the Trump Administration Unfreezes Remaining $110 Million in Education Funding for Arizona

• Gallego, Colleagues Introduce Bill to Make Homeownership a Reality for Young Americans

• Gallego, Kelly Reintroduce Bipartisan Canadian Snowbirds Act to Boost Arizona Economy, Tourism

MORE…

Arizona Attorney General Kris Mayes news updates for July 2025

by Community Contributor • August 1, 2025 • Comments Off

Office Arizona Attorney General Kris Mayes

News updates for July 2025 (This Week)

• Attorney General’s Office Secures Decade in Prison for Fentanyl Dealer After Successful Long-term Investigation

• What They Are Saying About Trump’s Tariff Tax Hikes: Arizona Businesses Warn of Economic Harm

• Attorney General Mayes and the Better Business Bureau Fight AI Scams

• Attorney General Mayes Announces Major Settlements to Expand Broadband and Protect 911 Access in Rural Arizona

• Attorney General Mayes Announces Investigation into Thin Blue Line Benefits Association

• Attorney General Mayes Sues Trump Administration for Illegal Demands that States Hand Over Sensitive Personal Data of SNAP Recipients

• Attorney General Mayes Announces Conviction and Sentencing of Phoenix Man For ‘Patient Brokering’ Related to Sober Living Home Scandal

MORE …

Areas of County within Apache-Sitgreaves National Forest rescind fire restrictions

by Community Contributor • July 31, 2025 • Comments Off

COCONINO COUNTY — After consultation with Forest Lakes Fire District and the United States Forest Service (USFS), areas of Coconino County within the boundaries of the Apache-Sitgreaves National Forest are no longer under fire restrictions.

This decision, according to Coconino County’s Wildfire Defense Ordinance, applies to all private property within the boundaries of the Apache-Sitgreaves National Forest. This includes the unincorporated community of Forest Lakes and all private campgrounds and recreation areas.

Based on significant improvement in forest conditions, the Apache-Sitgreaves National Forest rescinded fire restrictions on Friday, July 25, 2025.

Small businesses impacted by fires encouraged to fill out worksheet

by Community Contributor • July 30, 2025 • Comments Off

COCONINO COUNTY — Are you a small business owner impacted by the White Sage Fire or Dragon Bravo Fire? If so, the Small Business Administration has an Economic Injury Disaster Loan program that may be able to provide support.

We know the importance of economic recovery following these wildfires. Help us tell your story as we seek recovery opportunities for small businesses throughout Coconino County.

The first step is for Coconino County to establish a need for the program by submitting a packet of Estimated Disaster Economic Injury Worksheets to the Governor’s Office.

The Worksheet is NOT a loan application and filling out the Worksheet does NOT require participation in the program.

Coconino County forms Unidentified Remains Task Force

by Community Contributor • July 30, 2025 • Comments Off

COCONINO COUNTY — Coconino County has officially established an Unidentified Remains Task Force, a specialized team dedicated to identifying unknown deceased individuals and reconnecting them with their families.

The Task Force includes experts from the Medical Examiner’s Office, Health and Human Services Department, Information Technology Department, Sheriff’s Office and County Attorney’s Office who reexamine historical cases involving unidentified remains with modern investigative tools.

“We’re not just solving cold cases — we’re restoring identities, returning dignity to those who have died without a name, and getting answers families have waited years to find,” said Ammon Barker, County Attorney.

Dragon Bravo Fire Daily Update for July 30

by Community Contributor • July 30, 2025 • Comments Off

Highlights: Tuesday’s infrared mapping provided updated acreage as the Dragon Bravo Fire continues its northward push amid extreme fire behavior. Operations focused on holding Forest Road 610, improving indirect lines, and firing operations to protect values at risk. Southwest Complex Incident Management Team 2 is still taking a full suppression approach to the Dragon Bravo, while prioritizing firefighter and public safety.

Coconino County — Forest restoration project reduces wildfire risk

by Community Contributor • July 28, 2025 • Comments Off

COCONINO COUNTY — The risk of catastrophic wildfire and post-wildfire flooding in the Upper Rio de Flag Watershed near Flagstaff represents a natural disaster with a potential economic impact of nearly $3 billion.

To reduce this risk, the Coconino County Flood Control District (District) and Coconino National Forest (CNF) have partnered together in the Upper Rio de Flag Forest Restoration Project to facilitate critical forest restoration projects in the area.

“Wildfire and post-wildfire flooding are the top two public safety threats in Coconino County,” Patrice Horstman, Chair of the Flood Control District Board of Directors said. “Forest Restoration, such as what is underway in the Upper Rio de Flag Watershed, is the best way to proactively address these threats.”

Dragon Bravo Fire Update for July 28, 2025

by Community Contributor • July 28, 2025 • Comments Off

Latest Update: Southwest Area Complex Incident Management Team Two has taken command of the Dragon Bravo Fire on the North Rim of the Grand Canyon. Containment has decreased to 13% following updated perimeter mapping and recent fire growth. Yesterday saw a significant push 3 to 4 miles to the north, particularly on the western flanks. Spot fires were confirmed in North Canyon, and extreme fire behavior was observed with pyrocumulus columns developing to heights of 24,000 feet.

White Sage Fire Daily Update – July 27, 2025

by Community Contributor • July 28, 2025 • Comments Off

Highlights

Highway 89A has been re-opened to the public. The Bureau of Land Management (BLM) Arizona Strip District rescinded the fire area closure near Vermilion Cliffs National Monument today due to decreased fire threat and activity related to the White Sage Fire.
The rescission reopens roads that were closed for public and firefighter safety during suppression and repair work along FR 22 and BLM Road 1065 (House Rock Valley). Fire managers are asking for the public’s help to remain aware of fire resources that are continuing suppression and repair efforts along the fire perimeter and roadways. Please travel safely in the vicinity of the fire. Highway 67 south of Jacob Lake remains closed.

Coconino County seeks community input for Hazard Mitigation Plan Update

by Community Contributor • July 25, 2025 • Comments Off

FLAGSTAFF —The frequency and severity of disasters continues to rise across the country. To prepare for, and reduce the risks, Coconino County is updating our Multi-Jurisdictional Hazard Mitigation Plan. The purpose of this plan is to evaluate the risk posed to the community by natural and man-made hazards and to identify actions that can reduce or eliminate those risks. This update is a joint project between Coconino County, and the cities and towns of Flagstaff, Fredonia, Williams, Tusayan, and Page, as well as Northern Arizona University. Community participation is at the heart of this planning process. Input from residents, business owners, and local organizations is essential to help planners understand local priorities, concerns, and historical knowledge.

Grand Canyon Weekly Wrap-up: July 21-25, 2025

by Community Contributor • July 25, 2025 • Comments Off

Message from Ed Keable, Superintendent of Grand Canyon National Park, on the Dragon Bravo Fire Response

On Saturday, July 19, we were honored to host Deputy Secretary Kate MacGregor, Acting Assistant Secretary for Fish and Wildlife and Parks Kevin Lilly, and Acting NPS Director Jessica Bowron at Grand Canyon National Park. Their visit underscored the Department of the Interior’s and National Park Service’s strong support for our ongoing response to the Dragon Bravo Fire and their commitment to the future of the North Rim.

White Sage Fire Daily Update – July 25, 2025

by Community Contributor • July 25, 2025 • Comments Off

Highlights

Highway 89A has been re-opened to the public. Highway 67 toward the Grand Canyon remains closed.

The White Sage Fire is mapped at 58,980 acres (no change), and is 81 percent contained (6 percent increase from yesterday). The Oak Point Fire to the south is mapped at 85 acres and is 100 percent contained.

Smoke may be visible from Highway 89A from heavier fuels burning in the interior of the fire footprint. In addition, wind across burned areas may create dust and ash clouds, which can look like smoke from a distance.

Across the fire, firefighters are engaged mainly in mop up and suppression repair. Fire managers expect suppression repair on the west side of the fire to be completed within a few days. Crews are completing mop up and repairing fences on the north side of the fire.

Dragon Bravo Fire Update for July 25, 2025

by Community Contributor • July 25, 2025 • Comments Off

Latest Update: Thursday brought record breaking dry conditions to the Dragon Bravo Fire on the North Rim of Grand Canyon National Park. Firefighters held control lines and are preparing for increased activity in the coming days as critically low humidity and gusty winds persist through the week.

Ongoing & Planned Operations: Firefighters continue building fireline on forest roads 610 and 611. Crews have completed work along Forest Road 223 northwest of the fire and are now preparing contingency lines along Forest Road 222. Fire behavior analysts are determining the feasibility of building contingency lines northeast of the Dragon Bravo Fire near Lookout Tower Road. Structure protection groups continue to install and improve defense measures around the Kaibab Lodge and gas station, as well as other critical infrastructure. Aircraft successfully limited spread on the western flank of the fire near the Dragon Creek from moving further northeast. Fire continues to back down into the canyon southeast of the fire.

Burlington Northern Santa Fe Railway (BNSF) plans daytime closure of Parks railroad crossing July 25-28 for emergency repairs

by Community Contributor • July 25, 2025 • Comments Off

COCONINO COUNTY — Burlington Northern Santa Fe Railway (BNSF) has informed Coconino County that it will temporarily close the railroad crossing on Garland Prairie Road in Parks for emergency repair work from Friday, July 25 through Monday, July 28.

Daily closures will be in effect from 5 a.m. to 5 p.m., with the crossing scheduled to reopen each evening.

The emergency work will involve replacing railroad ties and repaving the asphalt crossing surface to ensure safe travel for both motorists and trains.

White Sage Fire Daily Update – July 24, 2025

by Community Contributor • July 24, 2025 • Comments Off

Highlights

The White Sage Fire is mapped at 58,980 acres and is 75 percent contained, an 11 percent increase from yesterday. The Oak Point Fire is mapped at 85 acres and is 100 percent contained. Weather conditions are conducive for active fire behavior.

On the west side of the fire, crews with heavy equipment are engaged in suppression repair efforts. This entails pulling back berms, placing vegetation on disturbed soil, and spreading approved seed mix to stabilize soil and restore the natural appearance of the area. Today crews will begin repairing livestock fencing damaged during suppression efforts. Fencing is important infrastructure used to manage grazing allotments on public lands.

Dragon Bravo Fire Update for July 24, 2025

by Community Contributor • July 24, 2025 • Comments Off

Latest Update: The Dragon Bravo Fire located on the North Rim of Grand Canyon National Park remains active during a period of critical fire weather. Continued suppression efforts are focused on securing existing containment lines, as well as preparing and scouting other contingency fireline options and protecting values at risk, including the Kaibab Lodge and infrastructure within the park.

White Sage Fire Daily Update for July 22, 2025

by Community Contributor • July 22, 2025 • Comments Off

Highlights
Firefighters have been making progress around all edges of the fire. The fire has now been mapped to include the slight increase in acreage attributed to the interior pockets of unburned vegetation that are now burned. Water tenders have been working diligently to shuttle water to the incident from sources such as Big Springs and the Colorado River, helping to fill portable drafting tanks for engines and supporting firefighting efforts in areas without nearby water access.

Dragon Bravo Fire — Firefighters continue to make progress on containment lines ahead of drying weather as containment reaches 18% Morning Update for July 22, 2025

by Community Contributor • July 22, 2025 • Comments Off

Latest Update: Containment increased to 18% on the Dragon Bravo Fire along the North Rim of Grand Canyon National Park. Cloud coverage and humidity aided firefighters yesterday as they continued to strengthen containment lines and protect values at risk, ahead of transition to drier, hotter conditions expected later this week.

United Way of Northern Arizona — Please Give to the Crisis Response Fund

by Community Contributor • July 21, 2025 • Comments Off

United Way of Northern Arizona is working with its agency and government partners in response to the wildfires at the Grand Canyon, which have impacted hundreds of individuals who live and work along the North Rim.

Contributions to UWNA’s Crisis Response Fund can be made HERE and will go towards helping those displaced by the blaze, which has closed the North Rim for the rest of the season. You can also text UWNAZRESPONSE to 41444 to give.

White Sage Fire Daily Update – July 21, 2025

by Community Contributor • July 21, 2025 • Comments Off

Highlights
Containment increased 2 percent from yesterday and the fire is mapped at 58,842 acres. Crews completed line construction around the successful burnout operation and followed up with mop-up work, increasing containment along the southern perimeter north of the Highway 89A area.

To ensure thorough coverage, firefighters are patrolling in a gridding pattern, using a method called cold trailing to detect any latent heat near containment lines. This technique involves carefully feeling the ground with the back of their hand to detect lingering heat, ensuring nothing is left that could reignite. Heavy equipment and firefighters are also engaged in suppression repair, restoring soil stability and vegetative cover.

Volunteers sought for tree planting on east side of San Francisco Peaks

by Community Contributor • July 21, 2025 • Comments Off

“This planting is significant not only because of the visual aesthetics and cultural importance of the San Francisco Peaks, but also because it can help reforest areas that burned uncharacteristically hot and may not naturally regenerate for more than one hundred years,” said silviculturist Mark Nabel. “These planted trees will help reduce soil erosion and improve wildlife habitat while also restoring some of the timber base that was lost in these recent fires.”

Grand Canyon Weekly Wrap-up: July 14-18, 2025

by Community Contributor • July 17, 2025 • Comments Off

Message from Superintendent Keable on Dragon Bravo Fire

The recent Dragon Bravo Fire has profoundly impacted our Grand Canyon community, particularly for our colleagues on the North Rim who have bravely faced this devastating event. Many have experienced traumatic conditions, with some losing their homes and cherished belongings. The challenges have not been limited to our North Rim team; South Rim employees and the Grand Canyon community in and out of the park have felt the weight of this fire, as many have deep personal connections to the North Rim.

The destruction wrought by the fire is hard to fathom, and we acknowledge the emotional toll it has taken on all of us. In response to this crisis, we are adjusting our park management structure to better serve the needs of our affected employees, and the complex demands of the Grand Canyon. I continue to focus my efforts as the Agency Administrator of the Complex Incident Management Team (CIMT), comprised of skilled professionals who are dedicated to addressing the ongoing fire.

To further stabilize our response, we have assembled a regional Incident Management Team that is focusing on vital areas such as coordinating mental and physical health resources and planning for the ongoing needs of those affected.

As we navigate this difficult time, we are bolstered by the strength, resilience, and dedication that defines the GRCA community. Together, we will overcome these challenges.

Stage 2 Fire Restrictions begin Thursday, July 17 at Grand Canyon National Park

by Community Contributor • July 17, 2025 • Comments Off

GRAND CANYON, AZ.— Effective immediately, due to high fire danger, Grand Canyon National Park will implement Stage 2 fire restrictions for the South Rim and all other areas of the park.

The restriction encompasses the entire park including all campgrounds, residential areas, backcountry sites and developed recreation sites.

Stage 2 fire restrictions prohibit the following:

White Sage Fire Daily Update – July 17, 2025

by Community Contributor • July 17, 2025 • Comments Off

Highlights

The White Sage Fire is now mapped at 58,559 acres, an increase of 6,637 acres due to improved mapping. The updated acreage accounts for previously undetected burned areas in the northern part of the fire, where light fuels and low heat signatures made early detection difficult. Containment has increased to 9%, with progress made along the south side of the fire, from the west side of Highway 89A to Road 422A. Today, crews will work to extend containment lines east of Highway 89A and along the northern edge of the fire’s western finger near Road 422A.

Dragon Bravo Fire Daily Update for July 17, 2025

by Community Contributor • July 17, 2025 • Comments Off

Latest Update: Firefighters are taking advantage of current favorable weather conditions to establish fireline on the Dragon

Bravo Fire as part of a full suppression strategy. Crews are continuing to protect remaining structures and cultural values located on the North Rim of Grand Canyon National Park while providing for public and firefighter safety. Fire behavior has decreased slightly due to recent weather events but remains dynamic and unpredictable.

Kaibab National Forest — White Sage Fire Daily Update – July 16, 2025

by Community Contributor • July 16, 2025 • Comments Off

The White Sage Fire reached 4% containment as of yesterday. On the fire’s west side, crews constructed dozer line near the community of White Sage, along the northern edge of the fire’s heel. Today, firefighters will continue mop-up operations, extinguishing any remaining burning or smoldering material, felling hazardous snags, and trenching logs to prevent rolling and potential reignition.

Fire activity increased yesterday on the north side of the fire near Winter Road. Multiple aircraft conducted retardant drops to help slow the fire’s spread. Water tenders are shuttling water to fill portable tanks, each holding up to 2,000 gallons, for helicopters engaged in aerial suppression.

Dragon Bravo Morning Update for July 16, 2025

by Community Contributor • July 16, 2025 • Comments Off

Latest Update: Aerial and ground firefighters continue to use a full suppression strategy to protect all remaining values at risk located within Grand Canyon National Park. While the Dragon Bravo Fire continues to grow on the park’s North Rim, it showed significantly decreased movement Tuesday in the Roaring Springs area.

Dragon Bravo Fire Morning Update for July 15, 2025 — Firefighters continue protecting remaining park structures on Dragon Bravo Fire

by Community Contributor • July 15, 2025 • Comments Off

Latest Update: Firefighters continue to use an aggressive full suppression strategy on the Dragon Bravo Fire working both daytime and nighttime operational shifts. Existing closures and evacuations remain in place. Firefighters are working to protect remaining structures on the North Rim of Grand Canyon National Park, build and strengthen containment lines and hold the fire to as small a perimeter as possible.

Highway 89A businesses open from Bitter Springs to Cliff Dwellers

by Community Contributor • July 14, 2025 • Comments Off

COCONINO COUNTY — The White Sage Fire has closed portions of 89A in the Vermillion Cliffs area. The portion of the road from Bitter Springs to Cliff Dwellers remains open and the businesses in that corridor are open as well.

Presently, there is a message board on northbound Hwy 89A at milepost 524 that says the road closure is 24 miles ahead. A second message board at Marble Canyon says the closure is 10 miles ahead.

If travelling, please be aware of message boards and recognize that situations can change rapidly.

For road closure updates visit az511.com

Tusayan Stands Ready To Assist North Rim As Fire Destroys Grand Canyon Lodge And Cabins South Rim of Grand Canyon Is Not Impacted By Fire

by Community Contributor • July 14, 2025 • Comments Off

TUSAYAN — Tusayan Mayor Clarinda Vail says Tusayan stands ready to assist the North Rim communities as they continue to deal with the devastation of the Dragon Bravo Fire on the North Rim of Grand Canyon National Park. The fire has destroyed 50 to 80 structures including the Grand Canyon Lodge.

The fire, which has burned more than 5,700 acres on the North Rim, does not impact the South Rim or its hotels or other services.

“We want our North Rim neighbors to know that we stand ready to help and assist as needed. The devastation is heartbreaking. Our hearts go out to all impacted by the fire and all that love the North Rim. We pray for the safety of the firefighters still battling the flames. Due to some media confusion we want to remind visitors with plans to visit the South Rim they can do so safely and that we welcome those North Rim visitors forced to change their plans to come to the South Rim and Tusayan.”

Coconino County extends support to Grand Canyon National Park

by Community Contributor • July 14, 2025 • Comments Off

COCONINO COUNTY — Grand Canyon National Park is a natural wonder of the world, geological storyteller, sacred cultural site and economic driver for Coconino County communities.

The loss of infrastructure at the North Rim from the Dragon Bravo Fire, including the lodge and visitors center, has a profound impact on residents and visitors alike and breaks our communities’ hearts.

In addition to the Dragon Bravo Fire, the White Sage Fire burning near Jacobs Lake has also led to evacuations and impacts on local communities who rely on the North Rim of the Grand Canyon.

The Coconino County Sheriff’s Office and Emergency Management have assisted with emergency efforts including road closures, evacuations and operations. The fires grew exponentially due to high winds and dry conditions on the ground.

Northern Arizona groups planning to join ‘Good Trouble Lives On National Day of Action on July 17

by Community Contributor • July 11, 2025 • Comments Off

By Indivisible

In one week, on July 17, people all across the country will gather together in honor of the late Rep. John Lewis to participate in the Good Trouble Lives On National Day of Action.

With MAGA Republicans continuing their ghoulish campaigns to terrorize communities, crush dissent, and tear families apart, it’s more important than ever that we stand up, speak out, and make some good trouble.

What’s good trouble?

Coined by civil rights leader Congressman John Lewis, “good trouble” means coming together to take non-violent action to challenge injustice and create meaningful change. That could look like a candlelight vigil, a community event, a rally, or any other creative way you can think of to stand up and remind the world that we will continue to fight back against this authoritarian regime.

State awards City of Flagstaff $4M for regional wildland fire training facility

by Community Contributor • July 11, 2025 • Comments Off

FLAGSTAFF — The state of Arizona has allocated $4M to the City of Flagstaff in its FY2026 budget for the construction of a regional wildland fire training facility. Local fire departments across northern Arizona are the front line of defense against wildfire and the construction of this facility will increase firefighter safety and improve wildfire response.

The construction of a permanent wildland fire training facility in Flagstaff will serve as the operational base for the Flagstaff Fire Department’s Wildfire Management Division, providing year-round high-quality and scenario-based training opportunities for local and regional fire personnel. The facility will also enhance coordination among municipal, state, and federal firefighting agencies. The City of Flagstaff has dedicated $650K for the design of the facility and the $4M provided by the state will be used for construction.

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