Rain and cooler temperatures assist Buckhorn Fire crews

7/19/2024 - 10:46 am

The Central West Zone Type Three Incident Management Team will assume command of the Buckhorn Fire on Saturday. The team will begin shadowing Southwest Area Complex Incident Management Team Two beginning today. Reduction in containment is due to successful defensive burn operations.

Overview: Yesterday, operations on the Buckhorn Fire were halted as nearly an inch of rain fell on the fire. Prior to the storm, dozers worked to construct a fire containment line near Bull Ridge. Due to the steep terrain, the line will be completed by hand crews as weather permits. Today, crews will be reassessing roads leading to the fire perimeter for firefighter safety and operations will continue as weather permits.

Weather: Yesterday, nearly an inch of rain fell on the Buckhorn Fire as a storm formed over the White Mountains and moved into the area. The storms are expected to continue today and through the weekend. Temperatures will remain in the mid 80’s with a 50 percent chance of thunderstorms.

Safety: Please do not fly drones anywhere near the fire. Drones may endanger firefighting aircraft. If you fly, we can’t.

Reminder: Stage 1 Fire Restrictions remain in place on the San Carlos Apache Reservation. Due to extreme drought, increasing temperatures, and no rain predicted soon, the potential of catastrophic wildfire remains high. This restriction is for the protection of public health, safety, property, and natural resources. No burn permits will be issued at this time. For more information call Fire Prevention (928) 475-2326 Ext: 352, 321 or (928) 961-0515 or email [email protected] 

Closures: There is an area closure in place around the Buckhorn Fire. Closures are being adjusted based on fire activity for public and firefighter safety. Please monitor the San Carlos Apache Tribe Facebook Page for updated information.

Smoke: Smoke-sensitive individuals and people with respiratory problems or heart disease are encouraged to take precautionary measures. Air quality information is available at https://www.airnow.gov/ 

Fire details:

  • Start Date: July 10, 2024
  • Size: 1,006 acres
  • Cause: Suspected lightning
  • Containment: 10%
  • Fuels: Timber, Brush, Understory
  • Resources: 145 Location: Malay Gap Area, San Carlos Reservation 

Important fire information:

Keywords: 
wildfire, smoke, Buckhorn Fire, fire restrictions, Stage 1 fire restrictions, San Carlos Apache Reservation
Source: 
Southwest Area Complex Incident Management Team