Yesterdays afternoon thunderstorms moved over the Grapevine Fire where outflows winds pushed the fire to the northeast and to the south increasing the fire size to approximately 500 acres; producing smoke that could be seen from local communities. Today’s fire suppression efforts include structure assessment on private in holdings in and around the fire area. Firefighters will monitor the fire activity along the western side and scout the eastern side for potential control lines; and continue to hold and improve existing control lines. Due to terrain and limited access; firefighters continue to identify hazards as they begin to safely suppress the fire.
Weather: Possible showers are predicted for today, with increase relative humidity and gusty winds in the afternoon.
Restrictions: The entire Prescott National Forest is under Stage 1 Fire Restrictions which prohibits building, maintaining, attending, or using a fire, campfire, or stove fire, including charcoal and briquettes, outside a structure that is provided by the Forest Service within designated areas for portions of the forest. Under these restrictions, discharging a firearm, air rifle or gas gun, except for persons engaged in legal hunting activities, is prohibited on the Prescott National Forest. Fireworks and the use of exploding targets are always prohibited year-round on national forests.
Recreationists on Mingus Mountain should avoid camping and hiking near the fire and utilize caution while driving the roads as firefighters will be traveling to and from the fire.
Evacuations: For current evacuation information contact the Yavapai County Sherriff’s Office at 928-771-3260 or follow them at https://www.facebook.com/YavapaiCountySheriff.
Smoke: Smoke may be visible from multiple locations including Prescott Valley, Dewey, Prescott and along Highway 169.
Fire details:
Official fire information:
For fire information please call (928)925-1111; or stay up to date on Prescott National Forest news by checking the Prescott NF website and following us on Facebook and Twitter.