Coconino National Forest officials are planning a series of prescription burns to maintain the vegetation ahead of fire season.
Flagstaff, Arizona – Smoke may be visible from northern Arizona areas this week.
The first burn on Monday targeted 503 acres seven miles east of Flagstaff. The goal was to reduce fuel in the area to reduce the threat of catastrophic wildfires.
Related: Arizona Brace for the Rise of Wildfires in the Next Months
On Tuesday, crews were burning 840 acres a mile and a half north of Belmont. Smoke is expected to be visible from Fort Valley and the surrounding US Highway 180. At night, smoke can affect Belmont and I-40 in the Belmont area.
From Tuesday to Thursday to Thursday, crews will work on burning 2,008 acres 10 miles east of the village of Oak Creek just south of Lake Stoneman. Smoke is expected to be visible from I-17 north of Camp Verde, Mando Park and Forest Road 213 (Stoneman Lake Road) and south of the Stoneman Lake community.
Crews on Thursday and Friday will burn 3,181 acres seven miles northeast of Clintwells. Smoke is expected to be visible on state route 87 between mile markers 295-302. Smoke also affected the Greater Blue Ridge and Clear Creek Pines communities at the time.
Earlier this month, National Agency Fire Center released its latest fire season outlook, with Arizona’s prognosis being harsh. It is promoted by increased wildfire risk spreading across much of the state, sustained drought, above average temperatures, slim snow packs in highlands, and China’s condition in Enzo, which has emerged in the Pacific Ocean.
Key points from NIFC forecasts:
- Rising Wildfires: Many in Arizona face above average wildfire potential through June.
- Drought-driven Condition: The persistent drought created a crater landscape.
- Increased fire activity: Expect a high chance of a normal big wildfire.
- Citizen vigilance: Extreme care is required to prevent fires caused by humans.
>> Download the 12News app and download the latest local break news directly to your phone.
12News on YouTube
Check out 12News for free
Thanks to more than 12 apps, you can watch 12News content anytime, anytime!
The free 12+ app from 12News allows users to stream live events including daily newscasts such as “AZ Today in”, “12 News” and “Arizona Middle Day.” roku, Apple TV and Amazon Fire TV.
Over 12 years old, even Zen moments showcase breathtaking sights from all over Arizona, occasionally feature live videos all day long for news, local news, weather and even occasional moments.
Users can also watch on-demand videos of Top Stories, Local Politics, I-Team Survey, Arizona-specific features, and vintage videos from the 12News Archives.
roku: Add a channel from the Roku store Alternatively, search for “12 News KPNX.”
Amazon Fire TV: Search for “12 News KPNX” Find the free 12+ apps to add to your accountor stream directly to Amazon Fire TV via Amazon.com or the Amazon app.
