Wildfires have charred vast areas across Arizona this season, significantly impacting well-known landmarks in the Grand Canyon.

Multiple fires are still active as crews focus on containing the Dragon Bravo fire, which is raging on the North Rim of the Grand Canyon. Another blaze, known as the Woods fire, flared up near Sedona on August 13, prompting authorities to alert residents about potential evacuations. The Washington fire, located near Payson, also raised concerns about possible evacuations.

Other fires have been reported in the central and eastern parts of the state, including the Billy Fire, Bronco Fire, and Indian Creek fire. Meanwhile, a fire on the Kaibab Plateau, affecting white sage, is currently 95% contained.

Billy Fire

The Billy Fire, located south of Gira County in central Arizona, consumed approximately 19,750 acres as of the evening of August 13, based on federal updates. As of that date, it was only 21% contained and was ignited by a lightning strike.

According to federal sources, scattered showers were anticipated on August 14, accompanied by winds shifting from the north to the east. Fire growth was likely to continue moving south and west toward Car Mountain.

Bronco Fire

Unexpected rain helped mitigate some of the Bronco fire, which is positioned northeast of San Carlos. Just days prior, it had been completely uncontained, covering 18,131 acres, with only 16% contained.

This fire is being fed by a mix of wood, chaparral, and brush. Sources indicate that rain in the forecast and lack of strong winds may prevent the fire from escalating further.

Dragon Bravo Fire

As of August 13, efforts have contained 44% of the Dragon Bravo fire, which has affected over 144,000 acres in the North Rim of the Grand Canyon. Initially sparked by lightning on July 4, this wildfire currently employs over 1,000 personnel.

Officials have noted that the weather in the area remains dry and warm, with winds posing challenges to containment efforts near Hindu Points and the Walhalla Plateau.

Indian Creek Fire

The Indian Creek fire, which is recorded at 2,513 acres since August 5 near Fort Apache, was at 25% containment as of August 13. Officials warned that the forecast of thunderstorms could lead to unpredictable winds. The challenging terrain has made it tough for firefighters to access the area.

Washington Fire

This fire started on August 13, northwest of Washington Park in the Payson Ranger district, burning between 10 to 15 acres as of 3:07 PM.

Residents in areas like Blakeley Crunch, Shadow Rim Ranch, and Verdegren are currently in “set” status, which means they should be ready to evacuate at a moment’s notice.

The sheriff’s office has advised to collect essential items and be prepared as they await further instructions.

In combating the fire, equipment and helicopters from the Billy Fire have been deployed, and additional air tankers are on standby. The cause of the fire remains under investigation.

Woods Fire

Residents in parts of Oak Creek village have also been asked to prepare for potential evacuations as of August 13.

A recent Facebook post from the Yavapai County Sheriff’s Office informed those living east of State Route 179, including parts of Jacks Canyon Road and Pine Valley, to gather important documents and belongings.

The fire was first reported around noon on August 13. Firefighters identified flames about two miles east of the village, approximately six miles southeast of Sedona.

While the cause of the fire is still unclear, residents noticed smoke while driving along Interstate 17. Firefighters have been working hard to contain it, and officials are requesting that citizens avoid the area until further notice.

As of just before 5 PM on August 13, about 50 acres were reported ablaze.

(This story has been updated with additional information.)