Webber Creek

Residents noticed increased smoke from both the West and Preacher Fires yesterday due to the increase in ignitions. On the Preacher Fire, crews were able to ignite within the entire planned perimeter. They were assisted by a helicopter with ignition capabilities that added additional fire to the interior. Everything held within the planned perimeter and crews continued patrolling and mopping up the edge of the perimeter as needed throughout the night. On the West Fire, firefighters continued igniting the northeast corner of the planned area ahead of the anticipated winds.

Yesterday conditions were favorable for burning. On the West Fire, firefighters worked east on Milk Ranch Road from the Webber Creek drainage adding fire inside the containment lines to consume the buildup of fuels. They also used UAS and a helicopter with ignition capabilities for efficiency and safety in the challenging terrain of East Webber Creek. On the Preacher Fire, firefighters were able to add fire along the Control Road south of Tonto Village all the way down to the powerlines.