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| 3/9/2010 10:11 AM | Pima Roads Conditions Update |
(March 9, 2010 – 10:10 a.m.) Pima County Department of Transportation has provided the following update on road conditions.
Road Closures - Red on the map
· #9 - Overton Rd at the Canada Del Oro Wash
· #17 - Fort Lowell at the Agua Caliente Wash
· #27 - Limberlost at the Agua Caliente Wash
· #59 - Soldiers Trail at the Agua Caliente Wash
· #67 - Wentworth Rd at Tanque Verde Creek
· #106 - Wilds Road in Catalina at the Canada Del Oro Wash
· #142 Redington Road MP25-MP27
· #148 - Tanque Verde Loop Rd at Tanque Verde Creek
Proceed with Caution - Yellow on the map
· 16 Wilmot Road from Andrada Road to Sahuarita Road
· #22 - Snyder Hill Rd from Sandario Rd to the edge of pavement
· 29 Speedway Boulevard east of Wentworth Rd
· #53 - La Cholla Blvd at the Canada Del Oro Wash
· #69 - Redington Rd at the end of pavement - Road slippery
· 85 Summit Street at the Franco Wash
· 90 Catalina Highway (General Hitchcock Hwy) – Proceed with caution from base to MP 14 – restrictions above MP 14 - chains or 4 WD
· #101 - Pump Station Rd between Avra Valley Rd and El Tiro Rd
· #104 - Snyder Road between Sabino Canyon Road and Kolb Road at Ventana Wash
· 140 Old Spanish Trail at the Rincon Creek
· 163 Old Spanish Trail @ Jeremy Crossing Road
· #126 - Snyder Road from Homestead Ave to Soldiers Trail
· #181 - Hawser St east of Twin Lakes Dr - ponding water in road
Road Closure Map: http://dot.pima.gov/gis/maps/closures
Please approach the area with caution and obey traffic control devices.
(Source: Pima County Department of Transportation)
| | | | 3/9/2010 9:02 AM | Prescott National Forest Cancels Plans to Burn Slash Piles |
(March 9, 2010 – 9:02 a.m.) Due to the large amount of moisture received in the project areas, fire managers plan have cancelled the slash pile burning scheduled for Monday, March 8, through Friday, March 12.
The public can obtain fire information via the following:
· Prescott National Forest Fire Information Hotline: 928-777-5799
· Prescott National Forest website: http://www.fs.fed.us/r3/prescott
· Bradshaw Ranger District 928-443-8000
· Verde Ranger District 928-567-4121
(Source: Prescott National Forest) | Prescott Forest, burn | | | 3/5/2010 1:47 PM | Prescott National Forest Plans to Burn Slash Piles |
(March 5, 2010 – 1:45 p.m.) Fire managers plan to burn accumulated slash piles on Monday, March 8 through Friday, March 12; weather conditions permitting. The piles are located on Spruce Mountain, various locations in Groom Creek and Ponderosa Park.
Specific days to burn are determined by current and expected weather patterns. Depending on conditions, any of the areas may be treated during the 5 day period. These piles will be monitored and allowed to completely burn themselves out. Smoke may be visible in the surrounding areas.
This project is part of an ongoing effort to improve forest health by reintroducing fire into the ecosystem, reducing hazardous fuels, and creating defensible space around residential and high use areas.
The public can obtain fire information via the following:
Prescott National Forest Fire Information Hotline: 928-777-5799
Bradshaw Ranger District 928-443-8000
Verde Ranger District 928-567-4121
(Source: Prescott National Forest) | Prescott National Forest, Slash Piles | | | 3/3/2010 5:20 PM | Maricopa County Seeks Input on Wildfire Plan |
(March 3, 2010 – 5:20 p.m.) The threat of catastrophic wildland fire is ever present in Maricopa County. Working with municipalities, fire departments and other agencies, the Maricopa County department of emergency management has formulated a Community Wildfire Protection Plan and is seeking public comment on the final draft.
“We want residents to understand the risks involved with wildland fires and the mitigation planning designed to minimize those risks,” said Pete Weaver, Maricopa County emergency management director. “Public input is critical to making sure the plan fits each of our communities, as well as the county at large.”
The plan offers information on potential at-risk communities and areas, along with ways to help better protect property before fires occur.
“We have worked with a team of natural resource and wildfire specialist from multiple agencies including local fire chiefs, the Forest Service and Bureau of Land Management to make this plan a document that can be used by everyone from the small homeowner to a large business,” Weaver said.
The public is encouraged to download and review the plan at the Maricopa County Department of Emergency Management.
Questions or comments are due by March 31 and should be directed to CristinaHerrera@mail.maricopa.gov or at (602) 273-1411.
(Source: Maricopa County Department of Emergency Management) | | | | 3/1/2010 2:39 PM | Pima Roads Conditions Update |
(March 1, 2010 – 2:39 p.m.) Pima County Department of Transportation has provided the following update on road conditions.
Road Closures - Red on the map
· #9 - Overton Rd at the Canada Del Oro Wash
· #31 - Catalina Highway (General Hitchcock Hwy) Closed at MP 14 except to Residents or Employees with chains or 4 WD
· #67 - Wentworth Rd at Tanque Verde Creek
· #106 - Wilds Road in Catalina at the Canada Del Oro Wash
· #148 - Tanque Verde Loop Rd at Tanque Verde Creek
Proceed with Caution - Yellow on the map
· #17 - Fort Lowell at the Agua Caliente Wash
· #22 - Snyder Hill Rd from Sandario Rd to the edge of pavement
· #27 - Limberlost at the Agua Caliente Wash
· #53 - La Cholla Blvd at the Canada Del Oro Wash
· #59 - Soldiers Trail at the Agua Caliente Wash
· #69 - Redington Rd at the end of pavement - Road slippery
· #101 - Pump Station Rd between Avra Valley Rd and El Tiro Rd
· #104 - Snyder Road between Sabino Canyon Road and Kolb Road at Ventana Wash
· #105 - Snyder Rd at the Ventana Wash between Kolb Rd and Sabino Canyon Rd
· #126 - Snyder Road from Homestead Ave to Soldiers Trail
· #181 - Hawser St east of Twin Lakes Dr - ponding water in road
Road Closure Map: http://dot.pima.gov/gis/maps/closures
Please approach the area with caution and obey traffic control devices.
(Source: Pima County Department of Transportation) | Pima, roads | | | 3/1/2010 1:10 PM | Snowpack Delays Repeal of Seasonal Road Closures |
(March 1, 2010 – 1:10 p.m.) Due to snowpack, seasonal gate closures scheduled to open today on the Santa Catalina Ranger District, Coronado National Forest, will remain closed for public safety and natural resource protection.
Gates will be reopened as conditions improve.
Gates affected are in the Santa Catalina Mountains and include Incinerator Ridge, Organization Ridge, Bigelow, Upper and Lower Bear Wallow, Marshall Gulch, Oracle Control, and the road above Ski Valley.
For more information call the Sabino Canyon Visitor Center at (520) 749-8700.
(Source: Coronado National Forest) | Coronado Forest, roads | | | 3/1/2010 9:28 AM | Pima County Road Conditions |
(March 1, 2010 – 9:28 a.m.) Pima County Department of Transportation has provided the following update on road conditions.
Road Closures - Red on the map
· #9 - Overton Rd at the Canada Del Oro Wash
· #53 - La Cholla Blvd at the Canada Del Oro Wash
· #67 - Wentworth Rd at Tanque Verde Creek
· #106 - Wilds Road in Catalina at the Canada Del Oro Wash
· #148 - Tanque Verde Loop Rd at Tanque Verde Creek
· #31 - Catalina Highway (Gen. Hitchcock Hwy) Closed above MP 14 except to Residents or Employees with Chains or 4WD
Proceed with Caution - Yellow on the map
· #17 - Fort Lowell at the Agua Caliente Wash
· #22 - Snyder Hill Rd from Sandario Rd to the edge of pavement
· #27 - Limberlost at the Agua Caliente Wash
· #59 - Soldiers Trail at the Agua Caliente Wash
· #69 - Redington Rd at the end of pavement - Road slippery
· #97 - Manville Rd between Reservation Rd and Avra Rd
· #101 - Pump Station Rd between Avra Valley Rd and El Tiro Rd
· #104 - Snyder Road between Sabino Canyon Road and Kolb Road at Ventana Wash
· #105 - Snyder Rd at the Ventana Wash between Kolb Rd and Sabino Canyon Rd
· #126 - Snyder Road from Homestead Ave to Soldiers Trail
· #181 - Hawser St east of Twin Lakes Dr - ponding water in road
Road Closure Map: http://dot.pima.gov/gis/maps/closures
Please approach the area with caution and obey traffic control devices.
(Source: Pima County Department of Transportation) | Pima, roads | | | 2/26/2010 3:28 PM | Saturday High Pollution Advisory Issued for Pinal County | | High Pollution, Pinal | | | 2/26/2010 10:54 AM | Prescott National Forest Plans to Burn Slash Piles |
(Feb. 26, 2010 – 10:54 a.m.) - Fire managers plan to burn accumulated slash piles on Monday, March 1, through Friday, March 5; weather conditions permitting.
The piles are located on Spruce Mountain, various locations in Groom Creek and Ponderosa Park.
The week of February 22 fire managers were able to burn approximately 20 acres of accumulated slash piles.
Specific days to burn are determined by current and expected weather patterns. Depending on conditions, any of the areas may be treated during the 5 day period. These piles will be monitored and allowed to completely burn themselves out. Smoke may be visible in the surrounding areas.
This project is part of an ongoing effort to improve forest health by reintroducing fire into the ecosystem, reducing hazardous fuels, and creating defensible space around residential and high use areas.
The public can obtain fire information via the following:
· Prescott NF Fire Information Hotline: 928-777-5799
· Prescott NF Forest Website: www.fs.fed.us/r3/prescott/
· Bradshaw Ranger District 928-443-8000
· Verde Ranger District 928-567-4121
(Source: Prescott National Forest) | Spruce Mountain, Groom Creek, Ponderosa Park, Prescott Forest, slash piles | | | 2/22/2010 4:40 PM | Pima County Road Conditions Update |
(Feb. 22, 2010 – 4:40 p.m.) Pima County Department of Transportation has provided the following update on road conditions.
Road Closures - Red on the map
Map ID Description
67 Wentworth Rd at Tanque Verde Creek
148 Tanque Verde Loop Rd at Tanque Verde Creek
186 Catalina Highway (Gen. Hitchcock Hwy) above MP 14 Chains or 4 WD
Proceed with Caution - Yellow on the map
Map ID Description
9 Overton Rd at the Canada Del Oro Wash
16 Wilmot Road from Andrada Road to Sahuarita Road
17 Fort Lowell at the Agua Caliente Wash
27 Limberlost at the Agua Caliente Wash
53 La Cholla Blvd at the Canada Del Oro Wash
59 Soldiers Trail at the Agua Caliente Wash
69 Redington Rd at the end of pavement - Road slippery
97 Manville Rd between Reservation Rd and Avra Rd
101 Pump Station Rd between Avra Valley Rd and El Tiro Rd
104 Snyder Road between Sabino Canyon Road and Kolb Road at Ventana Wash
105 Snyder Rd at the Ventana Wash between Kolb Rd and Sabino Canyon Rd
106 Wilds Road in Catalina at the Canada Del Oro Wash
126 Snyder Road from Homestead Ave to Soldiers Trail
181 Hawser St east of Twin Lakes Dr - ponding water in road
Please approach the area with caution and obey traffic control devices.
(Source: Pima County Department of Transportation) | | | | 2/19/2010 2:14 PM | Lake Mary Road Detour Removed |
(Feb. 19, 2010 – 2:15 p.m.) The Coconino County Public Works Department removed the detour on Lake Mary Road, also known as Forest Highway 3, at 12 p.m. today.
On Jan. 15, the Coconino County Public Works Department closed a portion of Lake Mary Road beginning at the north entrance of Mormon Lake (near the scenic overlook) to the south entrance of Mormon Lake. The closure was due to limited visibility caused by drifting snow.
During the closure, traffic was detoured through Mormon Lake Village to ensure the safety of drivers. With warming weather and no heavy moisture forecasted, the detour is no longer necessary.
For more information, call Public Works Information Coordinator Lindsay Daley at (928) 779-6630; toll-free (800) 790-1990.
(Source: Coconino County) | | | | 2/19/2010 10:56 AM | Prescribed Burning Planned Near Stehr Lake |
(Feb. 19, 2009 – 10:55 a.m.) Red Rock Ranger District fire management crews are conducting a prescribed burn today, Feb. 19 in the area of Stehr Lake and Forest Road 502, which is located to the west of Fossil Creek, north of the Verde River and northeast of the old Childs powerplant.
This activity is part of the continuing restoration process following the Irving/Childs Power decommissioning and deconstruction program. Vegetation to be burned consists of grass and dry cattail debris residual from Stehr Lake itself.
Once full flow was restored to Fossil Creek, Stehr Lake no longer received water from the flume diversion to the Childs Power Plant.
Smoke is expected to be visible from the Fossil Creek area, Verde River area and the community of Strawberry and is anticipated to disperse quickly today and into the weekend.
All prescribed fire activity has prior approval from the Arizona Department of Environmental Quality.
For more information, please contact the Red Rock Ranger District at 928-282-4119 or the Coconino National Forest Web site.
(Source: Coconino National Forest) | | | | 2/19/2010 10:53 AM | Prescott National Forest Plans to Burn Slash Piles | (Feb. 19, 2010 – 10:55 a.m.) Fire managers plan to burn accumulated slash piles on Monday, Feb. 22 through Friday, Feb. 26, weather conditions permitting. The piles are located on Spruce Mountain, various locations in Groom Creek and Ponderosa Park.
The week of Feb. 17-19, fire managers were able to burn approximately 45 acres of piles.
Specific days to burn are determined by current and expected weather patterns. Depending on conditions, any of the areas may be treated during the 5 day period. These piles will be monitored and allowed to completely burn themselves out. Smoke may be visible in the surrounding areas.
This project is part of an ongoing effort to improve forest health by reintroducing fire into the ecosystem, reducing hazardous fuels, and creating defensible space around residential and high use areas.
The public can obtain fire information via the following:
Prescott National Forest Fire Information Hotline: 928-777-5799
Prescott National Forest Forest Web site
Bradshaw Ranger District 928-443-8000
Verde Ranger District 928-567-4121
(Source: Prescott National Forest) | | | | 2/17/2010 8:32 AM | Governor Jan Brewer Requests Major Disaster Declaration from President |
(Feb. 17, 2010 – 8:32 a.m.) Governor Jan Brewer [yesterday] submitted a letter to President Barack Obama requesting a federal Major Disaster Declaration for nine Arizona counties and six tribal nations as a result of severe winter storm activity in January. With assessments of storm damage still underway, Arizona has reached the threshold for eligibility for consideration of the federal declaration.
The federal declaration would follow Governor Brewer’s previous state emergency declaration for the use of state emergency funds.
“My request for a Major Disaster Declaration in support of our counties and tribal nations is critically important to storm recovery for many Arizona families,” said Governor Brewer. “A federal declaration would bring further assistance to the recovery effort and help shoulder the cost of restoring impacted communities.”
The Governor is requesting Federal Assistance in the form of Individual Assistance (homeowners, renters and business owners), Public Assistance (public infrastructure damage) and Mitigation Assistance Programs.
Governor Brewer’s request for a Major Disaster Declaration comes while preliminary damage assessment teams continue to review the scope and severity of damage done to residential, commercial and public property across our state.
Governor Brewer’s request to President Obama includes Apache, Coconino, Gila, Greenlee,
La Paz, Mohave, Navajo, Pinal and Yavapai counties and the tribal nations of Gila River Indian Community, Hopi Tribe, Navajo Nation, Tohono O’odham Nation, San Carlos Apache Tribe and the White Mountain Apache Tribe. Maricopa and Pima counties and the City of Yuma also suffered storm damage, but not to the severity necessary to be eligible under a Major Disaster Declaration.
The President will approve or deny Arizona’s Major Disaster Declaration request based on summary estimates of damages. A Major Disaster Declaration would put into motion long-term federal recovery programs designed to help disaster survivors, businesses and public entities to recover losses not covered by insurance.
A Major Disaster Declaration for Individual Assistance could release funds for housing assistance and “necessary expenses and serious needs” not covered by insurance.
A Major Disaster Declaration for Public Assistance could provide federal grant assistance to political jurisdictions in one or more of seven work categories, including the completion of emergency protective measures and the repair of public roads and bridges.
Visit the Arizona Emergency Information Network website, www.azein.gov, for real-time incident updates, preparedness and hazard information, and multimedia resources.
(Source: Office of the Governor) | disaster, declaration, Arizona | | | 2/12/2010 1:26 PM | Winter Snow Play Advisory for the Holiday Weekend |
(February 12, 2010 – 1:25 p.m.) In the recent past, three day holiday weekends have been extremely busy for the snow play areas located along the Highway 180 corridor with several of the more popular areas reaching capacity by 11:00 a.m. Representatives of the Coconino County Sheriff’s Office, the Flagstaff Police Department, and the Arizona Department of Public Safety believe that Northern Arizona will receive an extremely high volume of winter recreation enthusiasts during the 3 President’s Day Weekend.
Of particular concern is congestion on Highway 180 north of Flagstaff, since several popular winter recreation sites including Arizona Snowbowl, Flagstaff Nordic Center and Wing Mountain Snow Play Area are located along the highway. Additional snow play locations that are not on the Highway 180 Corridor are also available and include: Mormon Lake Lodge and Happy Jack Lodge along Forest Highway 3 southeast of Flagstaff, and Fort Tuthill County Park, off of I-17 just south of Flagstaff.
If you are using the Highway 180 Corridor please expect the possibility of heavy traffic congestion and significant delays. In the event of heavy congestion public safety agencies may offer alternative routes as you enter Flagstaff. Please consider these alternative routes as viable options. On particularly busy days the traffic congestion seems to be the heaviest from 4:00 pm to after 6:00 pm. Winter enthusiasts may consider leaving earlier to avoid some of the heavier traffic. Remember you are here to have fun so please exercise patience and courtesy.
Visitors who are traveling to and from the South Rim of the Grand Canyon National Park may want to consider alternative routes that would allow them to avoid heavy traffic congestion and significant delays on Highway 180 during peak hours of use. Travelers to the South Rim may head west from Flagstaff on Interstate Highway 40 to State Route 64 just east of Williams AZ and North on 64 to the Grand Canyon. An additional route is north from Flagstaff on US Highway 89 to the junction of Hwy 89 and State Route 64 just before Cameron, and west on SR 64 to East Rim Drive in the National Park.
When travelling in Northern Arizona motorist should be prepared for the possibility of Winter Driving Conditions.
- Know before you go - Current information about where to go to play in the snow is available daily from the Flagstaff Visitor Center at 877-878-9377. A map of Winter Recreation sites in the Flagstaff-Coconino National Forest area is at http://flagstaffarizona.org/documents/WinterRec.map.pdf
- Be prepared for cold weather and winter driving conditions with a full tank of gas, chains, flashlight and other emergency items. Pack extra dry clothes, snacks, water and a trash bag.
- Be safe and aware. Don’t park along the highway. Look before you slide. Watch out for hazards and other visitors. Bike helmets are recommended for safe sledders.
- Be patient. Highways through the Flagstaff area may be congested.
- Leave no trace other than footprints and snowmen. Take your trash with you.
- Respect private property and other locations where snow play and sledding is not appropriate.
(Source: Coconino County Sheriff's Office) | Coconino County Sheriff's Office | | | 2/12/2010 1:22 PM | Prescott National Forest Slash Burns Scheduled Feb. 17-19 |
(February 12, 2010 - 1:20 p.m.)- Fire managers plan to burn accumulated slash piles on Wednesday, February 17 through Friday, February 19; weather conditions permitting. The piles are located on Spruce Mountain, various locations in Groom Creek and Ponderosa Park.
The week of February 8 through February 12, fire managers were unable to burn any acres due to weather conditions.
Specific days to burn are determined by current and expected weather patterns. Depending on conditions, any of the areas may be treated during the 3 day period. These piles will be monitored and allowed to completely burn themselves out. Smoke may be visible in the surrounding areas.
This project is part of an ongoing effort to improve forest health by reintroducing fire into the ecosystem, reducing hazardous fuels, and creating defensible space around residential and high use areas.
The public can obtain fire information via the following:
· Prescott NF Fire Information Hotline: 928-777-5799
· Bradshaw Ranger District 928-443-8000
· Verde Ranger District 928-567-4121
(Source: Prescott National Forest) | Prescott National Forest | | | 2/11/2010 11:20 AM | Madera Canyon Road on Coronado National Forest Reopens |
(Feb. 11, 2010 – 11:20 a.m.) Weather conditions have improved enough to allow the reopening of Madera Canyon Road in Madera Canyon on the Nogales Ranger District, Coronado National Forest.
The road is now open all the way to the end.
Visitors are advised to use caution as the road is still wet in spots.
For more information please call the Nogales Ranger District at (520) 281-2296.
(Source: Coronado National Forest) | Coronado National Forest, Madera Canyon Road | | | 2/10/2010 2:42 PM | Madera Canyon Road Closed Temporarily |
(Feb. 10, 2010 – 2:42 p.m.) Madera Canyon Road on the Nogales Ranger District, Coronado National Forest, is closed to all vehicles at the entry station due to winter weather conditions. The road will reopened when conditions improve.
The area is not closed to pedestrians. Visitors are advised to use caution and be prepared for winter weather.
For more information please call the Nogales Ranger District at (520) 281-2296.
(Source: Coronado National Forest) | Coronado National Forest, Madera Canyon Road | | | 2/10/2010 12:53 PM | Winter recreation reminders from the Coconino National Forest |
(Feb. 10, 2010 – 12:53 p.m.) With the holiday weekend approaching, the Coconino National Forest reminds the public of the following:
Winter driving conditions
· Be aware: Roadways through Flagstaff are often congested during the weekends. Be patient, and don’t park along the highway.
· Road closures: Keep informed on the current conditions of roadways in the Flagstaff area. Many forest roads are seasonally closed due to wet or snowy conditions, especially in higher elevations.
Drivers are reminded to respect road barricades and avoid driving on saturated surfaces to prevent road damage, soil erosion and getting stuck. Check on the status of state routes through the Arizona Department of Transportation via their 511 system (888-411-7623) or website at www.dot.state.az.us.
For forest roads, contact the Flagstaff Visitor Center at 877-878-9377.
· Be prepared: Stock your vehicle with emergency items such as chains, flashlight, and shovel. It’s also a good idea to pack extra dry clothes, snacks, water and trash bags, and always travel with a full tank of gas.
Where to play
· Recreation sites: Current information about where to play in the snow is available daily from the Flagstaff Visitor Center. A winter map shows popular recreation areas, including the Flagstaff Nordic Center, Mormon Lake Lodge, Happy Jack Lodge, and Fort Tuthill County Park.
To view the map, visit www.flagstaffarizona.org/documents/WinterRec.map.pdf.
· Use good judgment: Provide for the safety of you and others; do not play adjacent to highways or high-traffic roads.
· Snowplay areas: Wing Mountain Snowplay Area is located 10 miles northwest of Flagstaff off of Highway 180. Contact Wing Mountain at 928-226-0493 for current conditions.
Crowley Pit is also available for snow play, located further north on Highway 180.
Cinch Hook Pit is closed indefinitely.
· Backcountry travel: Learn about current avalanche and snow conditions in the San Francisco Peaks backcountry through the Kachina Peaks Avalanche Center at www.kachinapeaks.org.
Winter backcountry travel into the Kachina Peaks Wilderness via Arizona Snowbowl, Forest Road 522 and Lamar Haines Wildlife Area requires a free seasonal backcountry permit. You can obtain this permit by visiting either the Peaks Ranger District, 5075 N. HWY 89; the Coconino National Forest Supervisor’s Office, 1824 S. Thompson St. in Flagstaff; or Arizona Snowbowl’s Agassiz Lodge weekend mornings when the ski area opens.
Additional information can be found on the website at http://www.fs.fed.us/r3/coconino/.
(Source: Coconino National Forest) | Coconino National Forest | | | 2/9/2010 4:25 PM | Navajo Nation Demobilizes Emergency Operations Center |
(Feb. 9, 2010 – 4:25 p.m.) Emergency operations on the Navajo Nation have been downscaled to a skeleton crew and the operation is wrapping up snow operations.
Officials will start addressing impending mud and flooding issues.
Emergency operations staff will set up equipment at the Navajo Department of Public Safety and continue to work on reports. In the meantime, chapters need to continue working with their communities.
According to weather forecasts, there are six more storms that will be passing through in the next few weeks. People should listen to the radio for weather reports.
The public is advised to replenish supplies such as water; non-perishable food; wood and coal for fuel; and livestock feed, such as hay and grain.
People on medications should refill prescriptions. Dialysis patients need to consider alternative housing when storms move onto the Navajo Nation.
Parents of students should plan for alternative shelter to make sure their children make it to school.
People are advised to dress according to the weather. Travelers should also carry shovels, tire chains, tow truck phone numbers, contact phone numbers and a compatible phone, flashlight with batteries, matches, non-perishable food and water, and extra winter clothing including winter boots.
When on foot, travel in pairs. Travel is advised from muddy areas in the early morning hours and return trips should be made late in the evening as the ground freezes.
Beware of livestock on the highways and be alert to sudden storms.
(Source: Navajo Nation) | | | | 2/9/2010 4:21 PM | City of Yuma Issues Disaster Declaration |
(Feb. 9, 2010 – 4:21 p.m.) Mayor Al Krieger signed a Disaster Declaration Proclamation recently for damage done during the recent winter storms.
A Disaster Declaration is the required first step the City must take to recoup any of the money spent on the clean-up efforts because of the storms that occurred during the week of Jan. 18, 2010.
City Officials did not declare an emergency during the storm as the City's departments that dealt with the threats, damages, and emergency response were not overwhelmed. However, the costs involved for the storm cleanup are another matter. Especially when considering that any additional expenses incurred by the City, in the current economic situation, will have a serious impact on already limited resources.
The disaster declaration was the necessary first step in opening the way for state and federal assistance/reimbursement for expenses to come back to the City.
Conservative estimates put the City's costs for damages and response to the storm in excess of $200,000, which includes personnel costs for the 50+ employees that worked 'round the clock during the storm in addition to the Police and Fire personnel normally scheduled during that time frame. Yuma received nearly 2 1/2 inches of rain during the storms, according to Accuweather, with nearly 2 inches coming on Thursday alone.
"We were pumping water out of neighborhoods and retention basins as those basins filled up after that wetter-than-normal weather,” said Joel Olea, the Director of Field Operations for the Public Works Department. “The good thing is that our system worked for the most part. The water moved from the streets and neighborhoods into the basins that we've constructed over the last few years. There were a lot of man hours involved keeping water out of the neighborhoods and residents' houses. Now we have a lot of work to do to repair the damage done to our streets because of the excess water and mud from the agricultural areas."
Mayor Al Krieger stated, "In these tougher than normal economic times, we need to recoup as many of our expenses as we can. Declaring a disaster, even after the fact, is the first step in the process that will help us get some of those hard earned dollars back to our community. I'm extremely proud of our professional City employees. They were out there working, all night long, when I'm sure they'd have rather been home with their families. I can't thank them enough for working above and beyond the call of duty to keep our community safe.”
It may be several weeks, or even months, before the City finds out about any reimbursements. The cost information must be calculated, and tabulated, and then sent up to the State for processing.
(Source: City of Yuma) | Yuma, disaster declaration | | | 2/9/2010 11:56 AM | Winter Recreation Reminders from Coconino National Forest |
(Feb. 9, 2010 -- 11:55 a.m.) With the holiday weekend approaching, the Coconino National Forest reminds the public of the following:
Winter Driving Conditions
Be aware: Roadways through Flagstaff are often congested the weekends. Be patient, and don’t park along the highway.
Road closures: Keep informed on the current conditions of roadways in the Flagstaff area. Many forest roads are seasonally closed due to wet or snowy conditions, especially in higher elevations.
Drivers are reminded to respect road barricades and avoid driving on saturated surfaces to prevent road damage, soil erosion and getting stuck.
Check on the status of state routes through the Arizona Department of Transportation via the 511 system (888-411-7623.)
For forest roads, contact the Flagstaff Visitor Center at 877-878-9377.
Be prepared: Stock your vehicle with emergency items such as chains, flashlight, and shovel. It’s also a good idea to pack extra dry clothes, snacks, water and trash bags, and always travel with a full tank of gas.
Where to Play
Recreation sites: Current information about where to play in the snow is available daily from the Flagstaff Visitor Center. A winter map shows popular recreation areas including the Flagstaff Nordic Center, Mormon Lake Lodge, Happy Jack Lodge, and Fort Tuthill County Park. To view the map, visit www.flagstaffarizona.org/documents/WinterRec.map.pdf.
Use good judgment: Provide for the safety of you and others; do not play adjacent to highways or high-traffic roads.
Snowplay areas: Wing Mountain Snowplay Area is located 10 miles northwest of Flagstaff off of Highway 180. The site charges $10 per vehicle. Contact Wing Mountain at 928-226-0493 for current conditions. Crowley Pit is also available for snow play, located further north on Highway 180. Cinch Hook Pit is closed indefinitely.
Backcountry travel: Learn about current avalanche and snow conditions in the San Francisco Peaks backcountry through the Kachina Peaks Avalanche Center at www.kachinapeaks.org. Winter backcountry travel into the Kachina Peaks Wilderness via Arizona Snowbowl, Forest Road 522 and Lamar Haines Wildlife Area requires a free seasonal backcountry permit. You can obtain this permit by visiting either the Peaks Ranger District, 5075 N. HWY 89; the Coconino National Forest Supervisor’s Office, 1824 S. Thompson St. in Flagstaff or Arizona Snowbowl’s Agassiz Lodge weekend mornings when the ski area opens.
(Source: Coconino National Forest) | | | | 2/8/2010 2:56 PM | Pima County Road Conditions |
(Feb. 8, 2010 – 2:56 p.m.) Pima County Department of Transportation has provided the following updated report concerning road conditions.
Road Closures - Red on the map
· 67 Wentworth Rd at Tanque Verde Creek
· 148 Tanque Verde Loop Rd at Tanque Verde Creek
Proceed with Caution - Yellow on the map
· 9 Overton Rd at the Canada Del Oro Wash
· 16 Wilmot Road from Andrada Road to Sahuarita Road
· 17 Fort Lowell at the Agua Caliente Wash
· 27 Limberlost at the Agua Caliente Wash
· 31 Catalina Highway (General Hitchcock Hwy) Open to slow proceed with caution chains & 4 WD above MP 14
· 53 La Cholla Blvd at the Canada Del Oro Wash
· 59 Soldiers Trail at the Agua Caliente Wash
· 69 Redington Rd at the end of pavement - Road slippery
· 85 Summit Street at the Franco Wash
· 97 Manville Rd between Reservation Rd and Avra Rd
· 101 Pump Station Rd between Avra Valley Rd and El Tiro Rd
· 104 Snyder Road between Sabino Canyon Road and Kolb Road at Ventana Wash
· 105 Snyder Rd at the Ventana Wash between Kolb Rd and Sabino Canyon Rd
· 106 Wilds Road in Catalina at the Canada Del Oro Wash
· 125 Old Vail Connection Road at the Franco Wash
· 126 Snyder Road from Homestead Ave to Soldiers Trail
· 145 Country Club Road at Dawson Road
· 181 Hawser St east of Twin Lakes Dr - ponding water in road
· 198 Old Nogales Hwy (at the 11300 blk)
Please approach the area with caution and obey traffic control devices.
(Source: Pima County Department of Transportation) | Pima County | | | 2/8/2010 11:27 AM | Pima County Road Conditions Update |
(February 8, 2010 – 11:27 a.m.) Pima County Department of Transportation has provided the following update on road conditions.
Road Closures - Red on the map
Map ID Description
9 Overton Rd at the Canada Del Oro Wash
67 Wentworth Rd at Tanque Verde Creek
148 Tanque Verde Loop Rd at Tanque Verde Creek
Proceed with Caution - Yellow on the map
Map ID Description
16 Wilmot Road from Andrada Road to Sahuarita Road
17 Fort Lowell at the Agua Caliente Wash
27 Limberlost at the Agua Caliente Wash
31 Catalina Highway (General Hitchcock Hwy) Open with restrictions – chains or 4 WD above MP 14
53 La Cholla Blvd at the Canada Del Oro Wash
59 Soldiers Trail at the Agua Caliente Wash
69 Redington Rd at the end of pavement - Road slippery
85 Summit Street at the Franco Wash
97 Manville Rd between Reservation Rd and Avra Rd
101 Pump Station Rd between Avra Valley Rd and El Tiro Rd
106 Wilds Road in Catalina at the Canada Del Oro Wash
125 Old Vail Connection Road at the Franco Wash
126 Snyder Road from Homestead Ave to Soldiers Trail
145 Country Club Road at Dawson Road
181 Hawser St east of Twin Lakes Dr - ponding water in road
198 Old Nogales Hwy (at the 11300 blk)
Please approach the area with caution and obey traffic control devices.
(Source: Pima County Department of Transportation) | Pima County Department of Transportation | | | 2/8/2010 9:01 AM | Pima County Road Conditions Update |
(February 8, 2010 – 9:00 a.m.) Pima County Department of Transportation has provided the following update on road conditions.
Road Closures - Red on the map
Map ID Description
9 Overton Rd at the Canada Del Oro Wash
67 Wentworth Rd at Tanque Verde Creek
Proceed with Caution - Yellow on the map
Map ID Description
16 Wilmot Road from Andrada Road to Sahuarita Road
17 Fort Lowell at the Agua Caliente Wash
27 Limberlost at the Agua Caliente Wash
53 La Cholla Blvd at the Canada Del Oro Wash
59 Soldiers Trail at the Agua Caliente Wash
69 Redington Rd at the end of pavement - Road slippery
85 Summit Street at the Franco Wash
97 Manville Rd between Reservation Rd and Avra Rd
101 Pump Station Rd between Avra Valley Rd and El Tiro Rd
106 Wilds Road in Catalina at the Canada Del Oro Wash
125 Old Vail Connection Road at the Franco Wash
126 Snyder Road from Homestead Ave to Soldiers Trail
145 Country Club Road at Dawson Road
148 Tanque Verde Loop Rd at Tanque Verde Creek
181 Hawser St east of Twin Lakes Dr - ponding water in road
198 Old Nogales Hwy (at the 11300 blk)
Catalina Highway (Gen. Hitchcock Hwy) – Open with Slow Proceed Caution Chains and 4x4 above M.P. 14
Please approach the area with caution and obey traffic control devices.
(Source: Pima County Department of Transportation) | Pima County | | | 2/5/2010 9:31 AM | Prescott National Forest Plans to Burn Slash Piles |
(February 5, 2010 – 9:30 a.m.) Fire managers on Prescott National Forest plan to burn accumulated slash piles on Monday, Feb. 8 through Friday, Feb. 12, weather conditions permitting. The piles are located on Spruce Mountain, various locations in Groom Creek and Ponderosa Park.
The week of Feb. 1 through Feb. 5, fire managers treated 40 acres of accumulated slash piles.
Specific days to burn are determined by current and expected weather patterns. Depending on conditions, any of the areas may be treated during the 5 day period. These piles will be monitored and allowed to completely burn themselves out. Smoke may be visible in the surrounding areas.
This project is part of an ongoing effort to improve forest health by reintroducing fire into the ecosystem, reducing hazardous fuels, and creating defensible space around residential and high use areas.
The public can obtain fire information via the following:
· Prescott NF Fire Information Hotline: 928-777-5799
· Prescott NF Forest website: http://www.fs.fed.us/r3/prescott
· Bradshaw Ranger District 928-443-8000
· Verde Ranger District 928-567-4121
(Source: Prescott National Forest) | Prescott National Forest | | | 2/4/2010 7:02 PM | Navajo Nation Officials Urge Caution; Livestock Grazing on Plowed Roads |
(February 4, 2010 – 7:00 p.m.) Throughout the year, livestock owners are notified and informed about livestock grazing along the main highways across the Navajo Nation. Since the recent snowfall the animals are beginning to graze along the main highways because the deep snow covers grass and plants in the forest. Also as the roads are being cleared, horses and cattle are beginning to graze in the cleared areas.
Motorists are placed in danger when animals get on the highways. The likelihood of someone hitting an animal becomes greater because of narrow, plowed roads, especially at night.
Livestock owners need to be responsible by keeping their animals off the highways. Most chapters have been assisting their community members with hay during this state of emergency so individuals need to contact their local chapter government.
Navajo Nation Department of Agriculture shared a rough estimate of the numbers of livestock on the Navajo Nation at this time:
Agency Cattle Horses Sheep
Tuba City 20,630 5,419 28,898
Shiprock 11,014 2,648 14,215
Crownpoint 29,418 5,770 23,152
Ft Defiance 33,439 9,603 44,079
Chinle 1,842 1,217 3,870
96,344 24,658 114,214
(Source: Navajo Nation) | Navajo Nation | | | 2/3/2010 1:14 PM | Red Cross Shelter in Black Canyon City Closing |
(Feb. 3, 2010 – 1:14 p.m.) A Red Cross shelter set up at High Desert Park, located at 1900 Jacie Road in Black Canyon City, is closing Thursday, Feb. 4, at 10:00 a.m. Red Cross volunteers have been providing care and comfort to people in the area since storms moved through the state two weeks ago.
The Salvation Army has been preparing meals at the shelter while the Arizona Southern Baptist Convention provided a mobile shower for clients. Since opening the shelter on Tuesday, Jan. 26, no more than two people have stayed overnight on any given night.
The American Red Cross is there to help meet the immediate emergency needs of people impacted by a disaster. In addition to opening a shelter and partnering for the meals, Red Cross caseworkers have met with clients in Black Canyon City over the last several days to ensure all of their immediate emergency needs have been met.
All disaster assistance is free thanks to the generous donations of time and money from the American public.
People in the area are now moving into the recovery phase with support from friends, family, neighbors
and other agencies.
Red Cross Shelter Closing on Thursday, February 4 at 10:00 a.m.
High Desert Park
1900 Jacie Lane
Black Canyon City, AZ
Anyone impacted by the storms in need of Red Cross assistance is encouraged to call 1-800-842-7349.
(Source: American Red Cross) | Red Cross, shelter, Black Canyon City | | | 2/3/2010 11:59 AM | Coconino Fire Specialists Plan Pile Burns Over Several Weeks |
(Feb. 3, 2010 – 12:00 p.m.) Pending favorable weather conditions over the next several weeks, fire specialists plan to conduct prescribed pile burns north of Slide Rock and near Encinoso Day Use Area in Oak Creek Canyon.
Burning will begin Tuesday, Feb. 2, as part of ongoing fuels reduction treatment in Oak Creek Canyon.
Smoke is expected to be noticeable near Slide Rock State Park and along Highway 89A during the ignition period, although smoke is expected to disperse quickly.
All prescribed fire activity is dependent upon prior approval from the Arizona Department of Environmental Quality, www.azdeq.gov.
For more information, please contact the Red Rock Ranger District at 928-282-4119 or the Coconino National Forest website at www.fs.fed.us/r3/coconino.
(Source: Coconino National Forest) | Coconino National Forest | | | 2/3/2010 11:00 AM | State Opens Assistance Center in Gila County | (Feb. 3, 2010 – 11 a.m.) Arizonans in Gila County who are still wrestling with the aftermath of severe winter storms last month are getting a new resource.
Citizens in Gila County with questions about recovery or a disaster-related need, whether it be food, temporary housing or crisis counseling, are invited to the State Individual Assistance Service Center, 45072 N. Highway 188 (Silver Ridge Custom Homes, Inc.), starting Feb. 4 from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. daily. Visitors are asked to bring identification and to be prepared to describe their need.
Parts of the area near Punkin Center, Tonto Basin and Gisela in Gila County were acutely impacted by record precipitation. Preliminary Damage Assessments (PDAs) for Individual Assistance were done in the area to assess damage to residential and commercial properties and identify unresolved needs.
“After identifying the depth of those needs, the State is opening an Individual Assistance Service Center in Tonto Basin as a centralized location where residents can get the information and recovery services they need,” Lou Trammell, Arizona Division of Emergency Management (ADEM) Director, said.
The State Emergency Call Center is open to take public inquiries about the damage assessment process, reports of disaster-related damage, and other related questions. The center is staffed by operators 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. daily. The number is 1-877-464-1144.
Visit the Arizona Emergency Information Network Web site, www.azein.gov, for incident information, including links to the recovery resources. Visitors can also find detailed steps on how to get all-hazard ready.
(Source: Arizona Division of Emergency Management) | Gila County, Individual Assistance Service Center, Arizona Division of Emergency Management, Punkin Center, Tonto Basin, Gisela | | | 2/2/2010 4:27 PM | Navajo County Residents Asked to Take Steps to Prepare |
(Feb. 2, 2010 – 4:27 p.m.) Another snow storm is scheduled to hit the Navajo County area delivering rain and snow. Forecasters are anticipating up to 7 inches of new snow in higher elevations and increasing mud in some parts of the county.
Navajo County Emergency Management is encouraging all citizens, including residents of the Navajo Nation and the Hopi Tribe, to be prepared by having enough food, water, medicine and heating fuel for the next few days.
As we have learned from the last major storm system, communication is extremely important. Please take a few minutes to discuss with family, friends, neighbors and loved ones to be aware of how you are doing.
Also, remember to keep your cell phone charged and a traditional landline telephone.
You are encouraged to keep abreast of this snow storm by listening to locally broadcasted news and weather or by calling Navajo County’s Emergency Management Hotline at 928-524-4200, Option 3.
Weather and other emergency services information is also available on the County’s website at www.navajocountyaz.gov.
For more information review the link below as the Arizona Division of Emergency Management has prepared a brochure on helpful tips in the event of an emergency: http://www.dem.azdema.gov/operations/docs/pubs/brochures/preptips.pdf
The National Weather Service forecast information at http://www.wrh.noaa.gov/fgz/.
Thank you and please be safe.
(Source: Navajo County) | Navajo Nation | | | 2/2/2010 4:10 PM | Navajo County Deactivated Emergency Operations Center |
(Feb. 2, 2010 – 4:10) Navajo County will deactivate the Emergency Operations Center (EOC) effective today, Feb. 2, 2010 at 4 p.m., returning to non-emergency business as usual status.
Navajo County Emergency Management will keep a telephone line available for calls from residents reporting property damage in the unincorporated areas of Navajo County. The number is (928) 524-4790.
Please note a voicemail has been set up with this number for residents to report damages caused by the severe snow storm beginning Jan. 21, 2010.
For Damage Assessment information, if you reside within a town or city boundary (non-tribal jurisdictions), please call:
Town of Pinetop/Lakeside -- 928-368-8885
City of Show Low -- 928-532-4061
Town of Taylor -- 928-536-7945
Town of Snowflake -- 928-536-7103 ext. 255
Please have as much information as available about the damage you may have sustained during the recent storms. The following information is needed to report any damage related to this storm (not pre-existing damage or deferred maintenance):
-
Name of owner
-
Location/address and telephone number
-
Residential or commercial
-
If residential, indicate whether it is a primary or secondary home
-
Brief, but good description of damage
-
Whether or not the owner has insurance
-
Ballpark estimate of the cost of repairs
(Source: Navajo County) | Navajo County | | | 2/2/2010 3:20 PM | State Deactivating Emergency Operations Center; Assistance Center Still Open |
(Feb. 2, 2010 – 3:20 p.m.) The State of Arizona is deactivating the State Emergency Operations Center today, a significant step that emphasizes disaster recovery operations are in full gear.
There are still communities that need help recovering from the winter storm in late January that dumped record amounts of rain and snow across Arizona, resulting in flooding.
The State Individual Assistance Service Center (IASC) is open at the Black Canyon City “Old School,” 18800 School House Road, from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. daily. Residents affected by the disaster who have related questions or needs, like food and housing assistance or crisis counseling, should bring identification and be prepared to describe their need.
The Arizona Department of Housing is working in partnership with Catholic Charities to provide housing assistance to residents displaced by flooding in Black Canyon City.
Catholic Charities will be on site at the IASC from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. on Thursday, Feb. 4, to assist residents in obtaining security deposits and rent assistance for temporary or permanent housing. Catholic Charities will also have information available on state-financed rental properties that will waive security deposits and allow month-to-month leases for victims of the flood.
People unable to visit the IASC for housing assistance on Feb. 4 can call Catholic Charities directly. In Prescott, call (928) 778-2531 and in Cottonwood call (928) 634-4254.
The Hopi Tribe and Navajo Nation continue to need “cow hay,” or grass, to feed livestock. Citizens who can donate hay should contact the State Emergency Call Center at the statewide phone number, 1-877-464-1144. Donors are asked to supply transportation of hay contributions if at all possible. Road conditions in some areas may require a four-wheel drive vehicle for safe delivery.
“We are now in a recovery phase of this disaster,” Lou Trammell, Arizona Division of Emergency Management (ADEM) Director, said. “Lots of hard work and long hours have been spent by responders helping folks hard hit by this emergency. Now we must concentrate on helping the communities get back on their feet.”
The State of Arizona is gathering information to pursue a Major Disaster Declaration for Individual Assistance and Public Assistance from the President. The first step in the process is to perform Preliminary Damage Assessments of residential and commercial property and public infrastructure. People with disaster-related damage to their home and/or commercial property should call the State Emergency Call Center at 1-877-464-1144 between 8 a.m. and 5 p.m. to file a report.
The State Incident Management Team managing Operation Winter Storm has answered the needs of countless people who live in secluded and unreachable areas of the Navajo Nation and the Hopi Tribe.
Since Operation Winter Storm began, 42,504 Meals Ready-to-Eat (MRE) have been distributed, as well as 21,780 gallons of water. Area residents have also received 815 wood bundles, 279 cots, and 5,475 blankets.
During the emergency relief operations, more than 100 Arizona National Guard Soldiers and Airmen have been deployed to rural parts of the state to help with transportation and the distribution of food, water, and other vital items.
Visit the Arizona Emergency Information Network website, www.azein.gov, for incident information, including links to the recovery resources. Visitors can also find detailed steps on how to get all-hazard ready.
(Source: Arizona Division of Emergency Management) | Arizona Division of Emergency Management, Emergency Operations Center, Individual Assistance Service Center | | | 2/1/2010 3:47 PM | Navajo Nation Promotes Coordination Among Chapters, Operations Center |
(Feb. 1, 2010 – 3:47 p.m.) The continued coordination between the Emergency Operation Center (EOC) and chapter administrations need to continue on behalf of all who are living in weather impacted areas of the Navajo Nation.
EOC is depending on livestock owners and people living in remote areas to begin planning on temporary shelters or relocations to alternative sites. This will minimize repeat rescues of the same individuals.
People with livestock need to plan on alternative camps for sheep, cattle and horses, if they are having trouble on making resources such as hay, feed and water available on a timely basis.
In the next few weeks, low lying areas are at high risk for flooding and mud conditions are expected to increase in areas with deep snow. Communities should contact the EOC for sandbags and for assistance with planning and preparedness.
The Emergency Operation Center would like to stress that donations are dwindling and supplies are limited. People needing further assistance should continue to work with their respective chapters.
Most chapters are opened and providing shelters after hours for people who may be stranded because of the weather. It is advisable for people to leave their homes in the early morning hours while the ground is frozen to replenish supplies and to return quickly; if not, return trips should be done late in the evening as the ground freezes.
(Source: Navajo Nation) | Navajo Nation | | | 2/1/2010 11:30 AM | Winter Safety Still Primary Concern of Navajo Operation Center |
(Feb. 1, 2010 – 11:30 a.m.) Window Rock Police reported a weather related death seven miles north of Crystal Chapter on Wednesday, Jan. 28.
An 88-year-old woman was found in the middle of the road by a road grader operator. Police report that the elderly woman insisted on visiting her sister at 4 a.m. Her vehicle got stuck in the mud, and she apparently left on foot. Her body was located 25 yards from her vehicle. The death is believed to be weather related.
Chinle Police District will check on an individual believed to be stranded at a sheep camp northeast of Pinon Chapter. The Emergency Operation Center, Deputy Incident Commander David Nez explained,
“The EOC focus is on reports of large groups of people isolated by the weather conditions. Reports of individuals needing assistance is referred to the local chapter.”
Reports of missing people or people who haven’t been heard from are priority calls with the Emergency Operation Center. Response is sent out and followed through. At this time there are no missing people reports.
Much of the needs in the remote areas of the weather impacts have been met through cooperative efforts by Apache, Navajo, and Coconino Counties, including local emergency responders, Chapter Governments, the Emergency Operation Center and the Arizona State Incident Management Team.
In Search and Rescue Operations, efforts are hampered by road conditions in remote areas. Main roads are graded and kept open for school buses and emergency response.
The Emergency Operation Center is continuing to stress emergency preparedness for anyone planning to spend an extended time in the outdoors. Individuals should dress appropriately for winter weather. People should travel in pairs and keep in touch with relatives, their home or work base.
It is also advisable that people carry a dependable communication system, water and non-perishable food, matches, flash lights with batteries. Each vehicle should also have tire chains and shovels. Travel on foot is not advised in winter weather conditions.
EOC Deputy Incident Commander, David Nez concludes that, “We need to respect the winter condition around us. It is a great blessing to the environment to have all this moisture.”
(Source: Navajo Nation) | Navajo Nation | | | 1/31/2010 3:24 PM | Navajo Nation Emergency Operations Center Reports Light Activity on Sunday |
(January 31, 2010 3:25 p.m.) Navajo Nation Emergency Operation Center (EOC) remained open on Sunday to monitor continuing emergency relief activities throughout the Navajo Nation. Activity levels were reported to be light, with work on the roads and some local distribution sites closed for the day.
The roads operations stood down and were closed on Sunday to conduct maintenance activities and provide staff with much needed rest. During the past week and a half, the road crews worked to clear primary and other roads on the Navajo Nation to open access for residents stranded by recent winter weather.
Some local distribution centers were not open Sunday, including Crownpoint, NM and Dilkon, AZ. These sites and others throughout the Navajo Nation have provided coal, wood, food, hay, and other supplies to families and livestock.
On Saturday, January 30, 2010, forty people and families were assisted with food, fuel, and hay
in the communities of Steamboat, Cornfields, Jeddito, Kinlichee, and Klagetoh, in the Arizona portion of the Navajo Nation.
The State EOC in Holbrook, AZ will have its last day of operation on Monday, February 1, 2010. Demobilization is taking place through February 2, 2010.
Representatives of the Navajo Nation EOC incident command team traveled to Holbrook, Arizona on Sunday to meet with the State EOC staff on the transition process. Some issues such as resources to be transferred to the Navajo EOC and resources to be released, as well as financial and other items will be discussed.
(Source: Navajo Nation Emergency Management) | | | | 1/31/2010 3:21 PM | Red Cross Concentrated Casework in Hard-hit Areas |
(January 31, 2010 – 3:20 p.m.) As relief efforts shift from the emergency phase of the flooding operation to the recovery phase, the Red Cross is conducting concentrated casework outreach in hard-hit communities in Arizona. This casework to disaster victims in Black Canyon City and Tonto Basin helps to meet disaster-caused needs.
During casework, each individual or family will have an opportunity to meet one-on-one with a trained interviewer to help determine needs and provide urgently needed assistance. Assistance may include providing disaster victims with the means to pay for what they need most -- from groceries, new clothing, and rent to emergency home repairs, household items and medicines. The Red Cross also provides counseling and referrals to other community resources.
On-call Red Cross nurses can assist with disaster-related injuries and illnesses and can help clients replace eyeglasses, dentures, hearing aids, or prescriptions lost in the disaster.
All Red Cross assistance is given on a uniform basis, depending on family size and need. It is free and given as an outright gift from the American people. Individuals or families applying to the Red Cross for assistance must bring with them some form of identification showing their address, as proof that they lived in the area affected by the disaster.
(Source: American Red Cross, Grand Canyon Chapter)
| | | | 1/31/2010 2:16 PM | Arizona Food Bank Contributes to Operation Winter Storm |
(January 31, 2010 – 2:20 p.m.) Humanitarian efforts continue throughout the Navajo Reservation and the Hopi Tribal Land. Crews are actively distributing food and supplies to villages and chapterhouses for residents impacted by the recent winter storms. To contribute to the relief operation St. Mary's Food Bank is donating a semi truck load of non perishable food items.
Food bank representatives will depart from Phoenix early Sunday to be at the Incident Command Post in Holbrook first thing in the morning. Crews with the Arizona State All Risk Incident Management Team in Holbrook will organize distribution via Arizona National Guard trucks to the seven established stockpile locations: Kayenta, Pinon, Tuba City, Dilkon, Window Rock, Chinle, and Kykotsmovi. Residents can contact their chapterhouse or village for details.
(Source: Arizona Division of Emergency Management) | | | | 1/30/2010 6:57 PM | Emergency Supplies Available for Distribution by Chapters |
(January 31, 2010 – 8:40 a.m.) Operation Winter Storm with the assistance of Navajo, Coconino, and Apache counties along with the Navajo Nation Emergency Management and the Hopi Tribe Emergency Management has established several stockpile locations for food, water, and heating fuel supplies. These locations are Kayenta, Pinon, Tuba City, Dilkon, Window Rock, Chinle, and Kykotsmovi.
Residents will receive supplies from the stockpile locations listed above, distributed by their chapter or village. Navajo Nation and the Hopi Tribe residents who have been negatively impacted by the severe snow storm starting January 21, 2010 should contact their chapter or village for necessary supplies.
The National Guard has been providing direct assistance to the chapters or villages by transporting the necessary emergency supplies from the Flagstaff and Holbrook area to the stockpiles. For this mission, the National Guard is unable to provide delivery services to residential sites.
It is requested that if residents are stranded or need emergency help please call your local Police Department for assistance or contact the Navajo Nation Emergency Management office at 928-871-6892 or -6892.
(Source: Navajo County Emergency Management) | | | | 1/29/2010 3:44 PM | Navajo County Begins Conducting Preliminary Damage Assessments |
(Jan. 29, 2010 – 3:44 p.m.) Navajo County, cities, and towns will be working together to provide the Arizona Division of Emergency Management (ADEM) with preliminary damage assessments in the recovery after the onset of the severe snow storm.
The first step is to compile a complete assessment list of all known reports of possible damage. Navajo County’s Emergency Management team stated they have contacted the cities, towns and public agencies and requested for them to assemble the information they have received and also to go out in the community and provide assessments.
Navajo County will forward all assessments to ADEM officials, who will use the information to identify locally damaged areas that will need to be prioritized and assessed in more detail.
For Damage Assessment Information for the citizens in non-tribal jurisdictions, please call:
· Town of Pinetop/Lakeside 928-368-8885
· City of Show Low 928-532-4061
· Town of Taylor 928-536-7945
· Town of Snowflake 928-536-7103, Ext. 255
· Un-incorporated areas of Navajo County 928-524-4790
Please have as much information as available about the damage you may have sustained during the recent storms. A good description, photos, and cost estimates are very helpful. The cities and towns as well as the county will be assembling this information for the state.
The State of Arizona has activated the State Emergency Call Center in support of affected counties across the state, and to help facilitate the recovery process. The information provided by callers is important to the Major Disaster Declaration request process. It is used to determine State eligibility for federal assistance.
The State urges citizens with questions about the Preliminary Damage Assessment (PDA) process and reports of disaster-related damage to call the State Emergency Call Center from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. daily and on weekends. The statewide phone number is 1-877-464-1144.
(Source: Navajo County) | Navajo County | | | 1/29/2010 12:10 PM | State Seeks Donations of Hay, Transportation for Affected Reservations |
(Jan. 29, 2010 – 12:10 p.m.) Impassable roads and snowdrifts up to 8 feet in some places has created a need for resources and hay among those living in remote areas on Hopi Tribe and Navajo Nation lands.
The Hopi Tribe and Navajo Nation have identified a combined need for 4,750 bales of “cow hay” (grass) to feed livestock. The White Mountain Apache Tribe has sufficient hay, but needs help moving 600 bales from separate locations in and around the town of Whiteriver.
People able to donate hay, transport or both should contact the State Emergency Call Center at the statewide phone number, 1-877-464-1144. Donors are asked to supply transportation of hay contributions if at all possible. Road conditions in some areas may require a four-wheel drive vehicle for safe delivery.
“The State Incident Management Team in Holbrook has done a professional job in moving survival needs by land and air to those removed from resources and services,” said Lou Trammell, Arizona Division of Emergency Management Director. “Now there’s a need for hay for livestock. Livestock is a source of sustainable food and a livelihood for some on the reservations, so it’s imperative that we work cooperatively to sustain those assets.”
Since Jan. 25, Operation Winter Storm in Holbrook, Navajo County, has delivered 22,400 meals, 26,750 gallons of water, 4,500 Red Cross blanks and 100 cots to the Hopi Tribe and Navajo Nation.
The State Emergency Call Center remains open to take public inquiries about the damage assessment process, reports of disaster-related damage and, now, of offers of gifts and services. The center is staffed by live operators 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. daily.
Preliminary Damage Assessments (PDAs) for Individual Assistance and Public Assistance of affected counties are ongoing. PDAs are conducted in the field, where assessors can tour and gauge the damage caused to residential and commercial properties and public infrastructure.
Visit the Arizona Emergency Information Network website, www.azein.gov, for incident information, including links to the recovery resources.
(Source: Arizona Division of Emergency Management) | Navajo Nation, Hopi Tribe, White Mountain Apache, hay, donations | | | 1/29/2010 11:44 AM | Navajo Nation Undertakes Search and Rescue Missions |
(Jan. 29, 2010 – 11:44 a.m.) The Emergency Operation Center (EOC) has focused on the Kinliichii and Klagetoh area today for a thorough search and rescue mission.
The Bureau of Indian Affairs Forest Management and the Arizona State Incident Management Division 4 team will cover the area to locate people who have not been contacted yet and are in need of basic supplies. People are using a red cloth to indicate a health need.
EOC and emergency response volunteers, workers, and people living in weather impacted areas and the general public are advised to dress in layers when in the outdoors for a length of time and to wear water proof boots, also to carry a working cell phone or a form of dependable communication.
When leaving the work place or home, notify relatives and work stations as to destination and expected return. People in the field must travel in pairs.
(Source: Navajo Nation) | Navajo Nation | | | 1/29/2010 8:55 AM | Prescott National Forest Plans to Burn Slash Piles Feb. 1-5 |
(Jan. 29, 2010 – 8:55 a.m.) Fire managers plan to burn accumulated slash piles on Monday, Feb. 1 through Friday, Feb. 5, weather conditions permitting.
The piles are located on Spruce Mountain, various locations in Groom Creek and Ponderosa Park.
Specific days to burn are determined by current and expected weather patterns. Depending on conditions, any of the areas may be treated during the five-day period.
These piles will be monitored and allowed to completely burn themselves out. Smoke may be visible in the surrounding areas.
This project is part of an ongoing effort to improve forest health by reintroducing fire into the ecosystem, reducing hazardous fuels, and creating defensible space around residential and high use areas.
The public can obtain fire information via the following:
-
Prescott National Forest Fire Information Hotline: (928) 777-5799
-
-
Bradshaw Ranger District (928) 443-8000
-
Verde Ranger District (928) 567-4121
(Source: Prescott National Forest) | Prescott National Forest, Slash Piles | | | 1/28/2010 8:34 PM | Navajo Nation Encourages Preparedness for Challenges From Impending Weather Conditions |
(January 28, 2010 – 8:35 p.m.) The Emergency Operation Center continues to support emergency relief efforts based on emergency declarations from the Navajo Nation, the counties of Apache, Navajo and Coconino; the State of Arizona, the Hopi Tribal Government, and the United States. Ground and air support is enhanced with support from Arizona State Incident Management Team.
The storm moving into the area Wednesday night left about 3 inches of new snow. The Navajo Nation Government employees and schools in the area were on two hour delay schedules.
The Emergency Operations Center (EOC) Incident Command advises that chapters in weather impacted areas and families, begin planning and thinking about temporary shelters for those who live in remote areas where roads are quickly becoming impassable.
“The safety of emergency personnel and the residents is of great concern, especially when people who are rescued continue to return to their homes following a rescue operation”, said Deputy Incident Commander David Nez. People with livestock need to make appropriate arrangements with the impending storm, soon to be followed by extreme mud conditions and flooding from snow melt according to Nez.
Chapters in low lying areas are advised to begin preparedness activities for extreme mud conditions and flooding. Communities along the Rio Puerco, Pinon, Leupp and Birdsprings along the Little Colorado River, Whipporwill, and Low Mountain are at risk for potential flooding.
People impacted by the weather continue to be reminded to work with their local chapter. Fees and restrictions imposed by Chapters when providing assistance with wood, food, or hay is strongly discouraged by tribal officials. Donations are not to be sold to the public. Resources provided to chapters through donations are primarily for people heavily impacted by the weather conditions and living in remote areas. These people often are the medically challenged, those who are on dialysis and depend on frequent health care, including the elderly and ranchers
(Source: Navajo Nation Emergency Management) | | | | 1/28/2010 8:50 AM | Pima County Road Conditions Update |
(January, 28, 2010 – 8:50 a.m.) Pima county road conditions, map
Road Closures - Red on the map
Map ID Description
67 Wentworth Rd at Tanque Verde Creek
148 Tanque Verde Loop Rd at Tanque Verde Creek
186 Catalina Highway (Gen. Hitchcock Hwy) above MP 10 except for Chains or 4WD
Proceed with Caution - Yellow on the map
Map ID Description
9 Overton Rd at the Canada Del Oro Wash
16 Wilmot Road from Andrada Road to Sahuarita Road
17 Fort Lowell at the Agua Caliente Wash
53 La Cholla Blvd at the Canada Del Oro Wash
59 Soldiers Trail at the Agua Caliente Wash
69 Redington Rd at the end of pavement - Road slippery
85 Summit Street at the Franco Wash
101 Pump Station Rd between Avra Valley Rd and El Tiro Rd
106 Wilds Road in Catalina at the Canada Del Oro Wash
125 Old Vail Connection Road at the Franco Wash
145 Country Club Road at Dawson Road
181 Hawser St east of Twin Lakes Dr - ponding water in road
198 Old Nogales Hwy (at the 11300 blk)
(Source: Pima County Department of Transportation) | | | | 1/27/2010 6:02 PM | Apache County Establishes Hotline for Residents to Report Damage |
(January 27, 2010 – 6:00 p.m.) The following number has been established for Apache County residents. If you have been impacted by severe weather storm in Arizona and have incurred damage or costs to infrastructure, private property (to include home or automobiles) please call the following number:
888-317-3351
Additional State Number: 877-464-1144
At the time of the call, you will be asked to provide the following information:
Name
Address
Phone numbers
Description of damage and estimated repair costs
Insurance Carrier
This information is being requested to assist the public in the state recovery process pursuant to the State’s Declaration of Emergency.
(Source: Apache County Emergency Management) | | | | 1/27/2010 3:14 PM | State Activates State Emergency Call Center |
(Jan. 27, 2010 – 3:14 p.m.) The State of Arizona today activated the State Emergency Call Center in support of affected counties across the state, and to help facilitate the recovery process.
The State urges citizens with questions about the Preliminary Damage Assessment (PDA) process and reports of disaster-related damage to call the State Emergency Call Center from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. daily and on weekends. The statewide phone number is 1-877-464-1144.
“We want the public to write down and to use the 877-464-1144 number,” said Lou Trammell, Arizona Division of Emergency Management (ADEM) Director. “Public input gives us a better sense of the severity and scope of the local impact. The information provided by callers is important to the Major Disaster Declaration request process. It is used to determine State eligibility for federal assistance.”
Arizona will pursue a Major Disaster Declaration for Individual Assistance and Public Assistance. The request for a Major Disaster Declaration is sent to the President from the Governor, and reliant on information from Individual Assistance and Public Assistance PDA Teams. Additional teams will be dispatched to different parts of the State throughout the week.
PDA teams were in Black Canyon City, Yavapai County, and Wenden in La Paz County yesterday to denote Individual Assistance damages to residential and commercial properties. Public Assistance teams evaluate damage and estimate costs to public infrastructure in seven categories and have likewise been deployed.
A Major Disaster Declaration is different from the Emergency Declaration that was approved in support of Operation Winter Storm. Operation Winter Storm covers 20,000 to 26,000 square miles of Hopi Tribe and Navajo Nation lands within Apache, Coconino and Navajo counties.
The State Incident Management Team in Holbrook is coordinating the delivery of resources, including 8,620 meals, 15,000 gallons of water, 20 tons of coal and 600 Red Cross blankets.
Visit the Arizona Emergency Information Network website, www.azein.gov, for incident information, including links to the recovery resources. Visitors can also find detailed steps on how to get all-hazard ready.
(Source: Arizona Division of Emergency Management) | Arizona Division of Emergency Management, Call Center | | | 1/26/2010 7:59 PM | Navajo Department of Agriculture Addresses Livestock Concerns |
(Jan. 26, 2010 – 7:59 p.m.) The Navajo Department of Agriculture (NDAG) has enacted a response plan to address livestock concerns related to the extreme winter weather.
Livestock owners are encouraged to contact their chapter officials with their requests for service. These requests are then processed, prioritized and forwarded for action through the Incident Management System.
Navajo Agricultural Product Industries (NAPI) has supplied hay and feed to meet emergency needs. It expected that this need will exceed NAPI’s capability, so additional vendors are being contracted at this time. These supplies will be distributed in accordance with the priorities established by local chapter personnel and the NNEOC.
Approximately 56 staff members of the Department of Agriculture are also working to establish areas to secure livestock that has to be relocated due to the extreme weather. As that Information becomes available it will be posted on the Operation Snowfall 2010 Web site and forwarded to the chapters and local media outlets.
(Source: Navajo Nation) | | | | 1/26/2010 7:52 PM | Red Cross Called in to Provide Safe Place for Flood Victims |
(January 26, 201 – 7:50 p.m.) The Grand Canyon Chapter is opening a shelter in Black Canyon City tonight in response to a request by Yavapai County Emergency Management. The Red Cross shelter will provide a safe, warm place and meals to those impacted by the recent storms.
Red Cross volunteers have been on the scene providing relief to Arizonans impacted by severe storms that moved through the state last Thursday. During the peak of our response, there were 11 shelters opened with more than 300 residents. So far, more than 1,500 meals have been served and more than 60 volunteers have stopped what they were doing to help people in need.
Red Cross Shelter Opens Tonight
High Desert Park
1900 Jacie Lane
Black Canyon City, AZ
(Source: Grand Canyon Chapter of the American Red Cross) | | | | 1/26/2010 5:57 PM | The Navajo Nation Continues to Implement Snow Removal Plans |
(Jan. 26, 2010 – 5:57 p.m.) The Navajo Nation Department of Transportation and the Bureau of Indian Affairs roads personnel began implementing their Snow Removal Plans on Thursday, January 21, 2010.
Both organizations, in cooperation with Apache County Road District 1 and 2, conducted removal operations through the weekend, with equipment operators working 10 to12 hour shifts in an effort to clear roadways that had been affected by the snow.
As of Tuesday morning, it is estimated that approximately 90 percent of the main roadways and approximately 50 percent of the secondary roadways have been cleared in the Shiprock and Eastern Agencies.
Approximately 90 percent of the main roadways in the Ft. Defiance, Chinle, and Western Agencies have been cleared with about 10 percent of the secondary roadways clear.
NNDOT and BIA have a limited number of operators, but they are continuing to work tirelessly to open up roads to allow chapter personnel to conduct their assessments. Additionally, NNDOT and BIA personnel are helping to staff the regional Incident Command Posts, as well as transport supplies and equipment to the various work sites around the Navajo Nation.
A number of equipment operators have reported being stopped by people wanting their roads cleared. We understand that people are concerned about these things, but each time this happens it delays the clearing operations. The equipment operators have been given assignments and must complete those assignments before they can move on to another task.
The priority for clearing operations is to first open up the main roadways, then to begin opening up secondary roads to help first responders get into the affected areas. Some operators have cleared areas for persons that have been identified by chapter personnel as having a medical need.
Some areas, such as Inscription House, Forest Lakes, Black Mesa, and Sawmill received four feet or more of wet heavy snow. These areas require the use of heavy bulldozers and end loaders to clear the snow. There are only four of these bulldozers available and they are all working to clear these areas now.
Other areas such as Oak Springs and Kinlichee have similar problems and as soon as other heavy equipment assets become available, they will be sent to those locations.
With another snow event forecast for this week, NNDOT’s priority is to reach those with an identified medical need and to keep main routes open. The clearing of secondary access routes will continue when possible, but medical emergency and main supply routes take priority.
(Source: The Navajo Nation) | Navajo Nation | | | 1/26/2010 4:13 PM | Flagstaff, Coconino County Begin Damage Assessment |
(Jan. 26, 2010 – 4:13 p.m.) Now that the most recent severe snow storm is over, City and County officials are beginning to work on damage assessment in the City of Flagstaff and the unincorporated areas of Coconino County.
Incorporated cities located within Coconino County are also working on their own assessment plans.
The assessment process was triggered by the recent State of Arizona Emergency Declaration, which allows qualifying residents and businesses, as well as public entities, to apply for possible limited assistance related to damages incurred during the storm. Assessments will be made on buildings, structures, roadways and utilities and they will be done in several ways, including ground and aerial surveys, agency assessments, and through damage reports by citizens.
The City of Flagstaff and Coconino County are working together with the Arizona Department of Emergency Management (ADEM) to ensure a smooth assessment process. The first step is to compile a complete assessment list of all known reports of possible damage. The list will then be forwarded to ADEM officials, who will use the information to identify locally damaged areas that will need to be prioritized and assessed in more detail.
Since ADEM officials will begin their assessments in Northern Arizona beginning January 28 or 29, it is imperative that the City and County complete their lists as soon as possible.
Citizens may call the following numbers to report residential and commercial damage:
· City of Flagstaff: 928-213-2399
· Coconino County (unincorporated areas only): 928-679-7144
The following information is needed to report any damage related to this storm (not pre-existing damage or deferred maintenance):
· Name of owner
· Location/address
· Residential or commercial
· If residential, indicate whether it is a primary or secondary home
· Brief description of damage
· Whether or not the owner has insurance
· Ballpark estimate of the cost of repairs
· Impact to businesses (economic disruption, closures)
Businesses are encouraged to report any loss of income related to the storm.
Some fire departments and fire districts have already begun the damage assessment process in their communities and are working with citizens on an individual basis. City and County officials will obtain the preliminary information from them and will add it to their overall assessment lists to forward to ADEM.
More information will be made available to the general public as the process unfolds. In the meantime, for questions concerning the damage assessment process, please call the following:
· City of Flagstaff residents and businesses, call 928-213-2399.
· A call center has been established to answer citizen questions and provide additional information. It will be activated on Wednesday at 10:00 a.m. The number to call is 1-877-464-1144.
(Source: City of Flagstaff, Coconino County) | Flagstaff, Coconino County | | | 1/26/2010 2:30 PM | State Route 89A Closed Until Repairs Completed |
(Jan. 26, 2010 – 2:30 p.m.) The forces of Mother Nature made themselves known along a number of Arizona highways during and after last week’s powerful winter storms.
A section of one damaged highway, State Route 89A connecting Sedona and Flagstaff, remains closed until emergency repairs can be made.
The Arizona Department of Transportation is working to speed repairs along SR 89A at the bottom of the switchbacks of Oak Creek Canyon, where storm runoff caused damage. The highway is unsafe for travel until the repairs can be made, and may be closed for up to two weeks.
ADOT’s engineers have assessed the area and have determined that rushing water flowed down the mountains and across the roadway, washing away the soil beneath a portion of the SR 89A pavement, creating a gap underneath the roadway. The water also eroded part of the slope next to the highway. ADOT is working to repair the pavement and fill in the retaining wall—work that is expected to take several days.
SR 89A is closed in both directions along an approximately 10-mile stretch. Drivers who normally use the highway to commute between Sedona and Flagstaff must now use Interstate 17 and State Route 179.
ADOT is working with the cities of Flagstaff and Sedona, as well as Coconino County and the Arizona Department of Public Safety to get the message out to both residents and travelers.
“We want to reopen the highway as soon as possible,” said John Harper, district engineer for ADOT’s Flagstaff District. “Our primary responsibility is to keep people as safe as possible when damage like this occurs. We want to emphasize that no one should drive around the barricades and try to travel on the damaged roadway. This is a major safety risk.”
The status of the SR 89A closure is listed along with other information about highway conditions around Arizona on ADOT’s Travel Information site at www.az511.gov.
(Source: Arizona Department of Transportation) | Arizona Department of Transportation, 89A, Sedona, Flagstaff, road closure | | | 1/26/2010 2:19 PM | The Navajo Nation Continues to Coordinate Emergency Assistance |
(Jan. 26, 2010 – 2:19 p.m.) The Navajo Nation Emergency Operation Center (EOC) continues to coordinate the work of providing emergency assistance to people on the Navajo Nation who have been affected by the recent heavy winter snowfall.
Responders began addressing the needs of those persons identified as at risk or medically needy this morning. Supplies are being gathered at central locations in advance of these efforts to reach those persons that have been identified as being most at risk.
As of this morning, the information being provided to the Navajo Nation EOC, has indicated that two of the most adversely affected areas are the Sawmill and Ramah areas. Some roads are still impassable, but crews from NDOT, BIA Roads, and Apache County Roads are working long hours to get assessment teams into these areas.
The areas of Grey Mountain, Gap Bodaway, Coppermine, Kaibeto, Inscription House, Navajo Mountain, Shonto, Black Mesa, Blue Gap, Tahchee, Forest Lakes, Pinon, Hard Rock, Whipporwill, Tselani, Steamboat, Jeddito, White Cone, Lukachukai, Tsaile, Wheatfields, Rock Point, Beclabito, Red Valley, Cove, Sheep Springs, Sanostee and Nakaibito have all received heavy snowfall leaving many roads completely impassable.
The Navajo Nation EOC relies on the local chapters from these areas to forward their assessments in order to most efficiently deploy resources.
The Navajo Nation Emergency Operations Command and the Arizona State Incident Management Team (IMT) have established regional incident command/coordination centers at Window Rock, Chinle, Dilkon, Tuba City, and Kayenta.
Other sites from Navajo Nation with Incident Command Post include the regions of Shiprock and Crownpoint, New Mexico in operations. These sites have been set up to facilitate the efforts of the emergency responders in meeting the needs of the various communities.
As the assessments are relayed back to the chapters, the chapter staff will identify and prioritize the needs for their areas. The chapters will attempt to meet the needs locally. If they are unable to meet the need locally, they will relay the request through an established procedure to the organization that can fill the request.
The Navajo Nation Emergency Operations Center and its staff coordinate these activities with the state Incident Management Team and other relief organizations to address the needs of the affected areas all across the Navajo Nation.
(Source: The Navajo Nation) | The Navajo Nation | | | 1/26/2010 12:05 PM | Red Cross Distributes Clean-Up Kits, Supports Recovery Centers |
(Jan. 26, 2010 – 12:05 p.m.) As the Red Cross emergency services team monitors the forecast and prepares for another possible response, while delivering clean-up kits and providing support to recovery centers.
Two volunteers picked up clean-up kits donated by the LDS Church in Mesa and are delivering them to people impacted the storms in Black Canyon City. The clean-up kits include a five gallon bucket, gallon of bleach, Ajax, dish detergent, clean-up rags. Volunteers will also distribute educational materials.
Additionally, volunteers are scheduled to deliver a warm breakfast to storm clients tomorrow morning. The Red Cross is purchasing the meals from a local restaurant helping boost the town’s economy.
Red Cross and Americorps volunteers are providing support at the Wenden Recovery Center set up at the Centennial Community Center located at 69725 Centennial Rd. They will provide water, snacks, information and referrals.
The Grand Canyon Chapter is also providing much-needed support to the Navajo Nation. Yesterday, Flagstaff volunteers delivered 200 blankets to the Holbrook and Tuba City chapter houses. The Red Cross is delivering an additional 600 blankets and 300 cots to the area. The delivery is expected tomorrow.
Help people affected by this disaster by donating to the Arizona Winter Storm Relief effort by visiting www.arizonaredcross.org or calling 602-336-6660.
(Source: American Red Cross Grand Canyon Chapter) | Red Cross, | | | 1/25/2010 6:29 PM | State Remains Focused on Relief, Mitigating Flood Threats |
(Jan. 25, 2010 - 6:29 p.m.) Five days into Emergency Operations Center (SEOC) operations, the State’s focus remains on moving relief to outlying and isolated communities, thwarting potential flood hazards and performing prioritized damage assessments.
"The work of helping Arizonans regain a sense of normalcy is in high gear," said Lou Trammell, Arizona Division of Emergency Management (ADEM) Director. "Although we continue to field requests for response assistance, the State has begun a comprehensive assessment of damages across the state as a prelude to recovering our communities and businesses and rehabilitating public works."
A state incident management team (IMT) in Holbrook is coordinating delivery of aid to the Hopi Tribe and Navajo Nation. "Operation Winter Storm" is supported with federal resources for emergency protective actions and debris removal released through a federal Emergency Declaration authorized yesterday. Road conditions and the distance of certain communities has hindered Hopi Tribe and Navajo Nation access to relief and resources.
A Major Disaster Declaration from the President would cover eligible, disaster-related household, business and infrastructure losses for the remainder of the state. ADEM has begun compiling information and will conduct preliminary damage assessments around the state. The results will be compared against a federal baseline to judge state eligibility for assistance.
An Arizona National Guard UH-60 (Blackhawk) helicopter flew to Holbrook and then Flagstaff this morning, transporting aviation liaisions to both sites. Additionally, over 1,100 Meals Ready to Eat (MREs) and 5,000 sandbags were delivered to Northern Arizona last evening. Flat-bed trucks have likewise been diverted to Holbrook in support of IMT objectives.
Meanwhile, neighboring Nevada National Guard yesterday met Arizona’s Emergency Management Assistance Compact (EMAC) request for helicopters. Upon arrival, the one CH-47 (Chinook) and two Blackhawk helicopters will support Northern Arizona operations from Flagstaff.
Visit the Arizona Emergency Information Network (AzEIN) website, www.azein.gov, for incident information. Visitors can also find detailed steps on how to get all-hazard ready.
(Source: Arizona Division of Emergency Management) | Arizona Division of Emergency Management | | | 1/25/2010 2:06 PM | Pima County Road Update |
(January 25, 2010 – 2:05 p.m.) Updated information regarding Pima County Roads (Map)
Road Closures - Red on the map
Map ID Description
9 Overton Rd at the Canada Del Oro Wash
31 General Hitchcock Hwy (Mount Lemmon Hwy) closed to all traffic
67 Wentworth Rd at Tanque Verde Creek
148 Tanque Verde Loop Rd at Tanque Verde Creek
181 Hawser St east of Twin Lakes Dr - ponding water in road
Proceed with Caution - Yellow on the map
Map ID Description
16 Wilmot Road from Andrada Road to Sahuarita Road
17 Fort Lowell at the Agua Caliente Wash
53 La Cholla Blvd at the Canada Del Oro Wash
59 Soldiers Trail at the Agua Caliente Wash
69 Redington Rd at the end of pavement - Road slippery
85 Summit Street at the Franco Wash
101 Pump Station Rd between Avra Valley Rd and El Tiro Rd
106 Wilds Road in Catalina at the Canada Del Oro Wash
125 Old Vail Connection Road at the Franco Wash
145 Country Club Road at Dawson Road
198 Old Nogales Hwy (at the 11300 blk)
(Source: Pima County Department of Transportation)
| | | | 1/25/2010 12:41 PM | Coconino National Forest Rescinds Closure of Kachina Peaks Wilderness |
(Jan. 25, 2010 – 12:41 p.m.) The Coconino National Forest, in cooperation with Coconino County Sheriff’s Office, is lifting the temporary closure of the Kachina Peaks Wilderness effective today.
The closure was enacted due to severe weather and extreme avalanche potential. The Coconino County Sheriff’s
Office and U.S. Forest Service would like to thank the public for their cooperation and understanding regarding this temporary closure.
Although the temporary closure is rescinded, this does not imply that the avalanche hazard has passed. Hazards still exist in the Kachina Peaks Wilderness due to the large amount of snowfall from the recent storms.
Backcountry travelers are responsible for their own safety and should exercise caution when engaging in wilderness or backcountry mountain travel.
Avalanche mitigation is conducted within the Arizona Snowbowl ski area boundary but no avalanche control is done in the wilderness. There is no avalanche forecasting center in the area and backcountry travelers are responsible for evaluating snow pack conditions.
Backcountry travelers are encouraged to consult snow condition observations posted on the Kachina Peaks Avalanche Center website (www.kachinapeaks.org), as well as share their observations. The Kachina Peaks Avalanche Center also offers monthly free avalanche awareness clinics as well as more formal avalanche education during the winter.
Winter backcountry travel into the Kachina Peaks Wilderness Area from Arizona Snowbowl requires a free annual backcountry permit. This includes the parking areas at Forest Road 522 and Lamar Haines Wildlife Area.
Backcountry permits are available in Flagstaff at the Peaks Ranger Station, 5075 N. Highway 89, and the Coconino National Forest Supervisor’s Office, 1824 S Thompson St. Permits are also available at Arizona Snowbowl Agassiz Lodge weekend mornings.
(Source: Coconino National Forest) | Coconino National Forest, Kachina Peaks | | | 1/24/2010 9:47 PM | President Approves Declaration Request for Hopi Tribe, Navajo Nation |
(Jan. 24, 2010 – 9:47 p.m.) Today, President Barack Obama approved Arizona Governor Jan Brewer’s request for an Emergency Declaration in support of life- and property-saving operations on Hopi Tribe and Navajo Nation lands within Apache, Coconino and Navajo counties.
“The situation on Hopi and Navajo lands is such that it qualifies for immediate federal support to protect life and property and expedite recovery,” said Governor Brewer. “Isolation of some communities and rough terrain, compounded with last week’s accumulations, has complicated delivery of assistance like fuel, food and medical provisions. This extra help will simplify the process.”
The Emergency Declaration request was for federal assistance in the form of emergency protective measures and debris removal. A State Incident Management Team (IMT) in Holbrook is coordinating delivery of state and county resources, including fuel, food and hay. The severity of the weather, road conditions and remoteness of certain communities has hindered access to relief and resources.
In order to address damages in other parts of the state, the Arizona Division of Emergency Management has begun to gather the information needed for a Major Disaster Declaration request of the President. A Major Disaster Declaration request could include programs to help additional homeowners, business owners and public infrastructure in other hard-hit locations throughout Arizona.
“In the days ahead, the Division of Emergency Management and our partner agencies will travel the State, conducting prioritized assessments of damage to homes, businesses and public works in the hardest hit communities,” said Lou Trammell, ADEM Director. “The findings of these groups will be measured against federal baselines and are the determining factor as to whether Arizona’s request for a Major Disaster Declaration and the federal assistance that comes with it is approved.”
Governor Brewer would submit that request for a Major Disaster Declaration to the President shortly after completion of the assessment.
Visit and bookmark the Arizona Emergency Information Network (AzEIN) website, www.azein.gov , for current incident updates. Visitors can also find detailed steps on how to get all-hazard ready.
(Source: Arizona Division of Emergency Management) | Arizona Division of Emergency Management, Emergency Declaration, Hopi, Navajo | | | 1/24/2010 9:08 PM | La Paz County Opens Interstate 10; Open House to Open Monday |
(Jan. 24, 2010 – 9:08 p.m.) County Road 75 in La Paz County, one of the main thoroughfares with access to flood-stricken Wenden, Ariz., has opened from Interstate 10 to Salome Road. Most county roads are now open and accessible.
County officials urge caution when driving on roads that were flooded since undetected damage may exist. This includes road shoulders that may be eroded and could buckle under weight, roughly graded road surfaces, and potholes that may be deeper than they appear.
As always, barricades across flooded roads should be heeded. Large debris that can cause serious damage to a vehicle may exist. Water in the road is frequently deeper and faster moving than it appears to be, and only a few feet of water can render a vehicle useless.
It is also against the law to circumvent road barricades blocking flooded public roads.
The 500 residents in the community of Wenden are striving to return to normalcy following the flood of Jan. 21-22, 2010, which drove people from their homes.
The shelters that were opened by the American Red Cross have been closed. Most people have returned home but they may still have repairs looming or other issues to resolve.
To assist those folks, La Paz County officials will host a Wenden Flood Assistance Open House Monday through Friday, Jan. 25 to 29, 2010, at the Centennial Community Center, 69725 Centennial Park Road, in Wenden.
Representatives from various La Paz County service agencies, including the departments of Public Health, Public Works, Emergency Management, Community Development, and La Paz County Sheriff’s Office will be on hand to assist citizens with questions or concerns regarding issues pertaining to the flood. Also on hand will be representatives from the American Red Cross and Salvation Army.
The Arizona Division of Emergency Management will open an Individual Assistance Service Center by Thursday to help residents with damage assessment.
For emergency bulletins regarding the winter weather emergency in Arizona, and for further preparedness information, go to the Arizona Emergency Information Network at www.AzEIN.gov.
(Source: La Paz County) | La Paz County, | | | 1/24/2010 6:32 PM | Pinal County Updates Road Conditions |
(Jan. 24, 2010 – 6:35 p.m.) This update is provided to announce roadway closure, detour, and construction information within Pinal County as of Sunday, Jan. 24, 2010, as of 4:00 p.m.
Pinal County’s Emergency Management Director Lou Miranda said that while the weather may be drying out, there is need to still be careful when crossing any washes.
“We still are dealing with runoff coming in from the south on the Santa Cruz River,” Miranda said. “The other washes and streams throughout the county will be dealing with runoff from snow melt in the mountains. We’ll be keeping an eye on that.”
Washes may be running across roadways. If you must travel, please be alert to the speed limit, traffic control, posted signs, barricades, detour routes, and road closure signs.
District 1: REOPENED
Superior/Kearny
• Highway 177 between Superior and Kearny
Mammoth/San Manuel
• Aravaipa Road from Highway 77 heading east for 10 miles
Arizona City
• Battaglia Road between Toltec Road and Cleator Street
• Battaglia Road from Henness Road to Chu-Chu Road
• Battaglia Road from Overfield to Sunland Gin Road
District 1: CLOSED
Arizona City
• Milligan Road from Vail Road to Wheeler Road
• Sunland Gin Road from Greene Reservoir to Aries Road
• Battaglia Road from Hwy 87 to Sunshine Boulevard
Riverside
• Centurion Lane is closed between the Florence-Kelvin Highway and Athene Place
Dudleyville
• San Pedro Road at the San Pedro River Crossing
Oracle/Saddlebrooke/Oracle Junction
• Willow Springs Road from Highway 77 to Freeman Road
• Freeman Road from Highway 79 to Rio Camino Road
Southeast of Florence
• Barkerville Road from Florence-Kelvin Highway to Freeman Road
Mammoth/San Manuel
• River Road from Copper Creek Road to Reddington Road
• Reddington Road from River Road to the Pima County line
• Bluebird Street at Main Street (San Pedro River crossing in Mammoth)
Randolph/Coolidge/CAC
• La Palma Road from Shedd Road to Arica Road
• Selma Highway from 11 Mile Corner to Tweedy Road
• Houser Road from La Palma Road to State Route 87
• Shedd Road from La Palma Road to State Route 87
• Hanna Road from Sunshine Boulevard to La Palma Road
Picacho
• Harmon Road from Picacho Highway to La Palma Road
District 2: REOPENED
San Tan Valley
• Hunt Highway between Copper Basin Road and Arizona Farms Road
• Hunt Highway and Walker Granite Road
• Gantzel Road north of Empire Road
• Gary Road between Judd Road and Magma Road
• Skyline Road between Judy’s Road and Felix Road
• Schnepf Road between Ocotillo Road and Laredo Road
• Gantzel Road at the Pecan Creek subdivision
Apache Junction Area
• Geronimo Road north of 10th Avenue
District 2: CLOSED
San Tan Valley
• Magma Road between Hunt Highway and Stardust Drive
• Bella Vista Road from Gantzel Road to Quail Run Road
Queen Creek Area
• Kenworthy Road from Combs Road to Chandler Heights Road
Queen Valley
• Sharon Drive from Lynn Lane to Kirk Drive
• Silver King Road between El Camino Viejo and Jay Street
• Hewitt Station Road from Queen Valley Road to U.S. 60
Coolidge
• Christensen Road from Highway 287 to Palmer Road
Florence
• Please note: Construction continues on State Route 79 at the Gila River Bridge north of
Florence. There are lane restrictions with traffic signals on the bridge. There may be
delays during times of heavy traffic. Construction on the project is expected to be
completed in one week weather permitting.
District 3: REOPENED
Maricopa
• Miller Road from Murphy Road to Stanfield Road
• Maricopa-Casa Grande Highway between White and Parker Road
• Murphy Road
Stanfield Area
• Louis Johnson Drive from Highway 347 to Green Road
• Amarillo Valley Road between Century Road to Barnes Road
Casa Grande Area
• Thornton Road from Hanna Road to Shedd Road
• Peters Road from Ethington to Corrales
South of Casa Grande
• Trekell Road and Hanna Road intersection
District 3: CLOSED
Stanfield Area
• Barnes Road and Miller Road from Murphy Road to Stanfield Road
• Louis Johnson Drive from Highway 347 to Green Road
Casa Grande Area
• Maricopa-Casa Grande Highway and Highway 84 (within Casa Grande city limits)
Randolph/Coolidge/CAC
• Corman Road from 11 Mile Corner Road to State Route 87
• Tweedy Road from Randolph Road to Kleck Road
Maricopa
• Porter Road at the Santa Rosa Wash
• Rancho El Dorado Parkway at the Santa Rosa Wash
• Farrell Road north and south of the Union Pacific Railroad
• Farrell Road from Hartman Road to White and Parker Road
• Hartman Road from Farrell Road to the Maricopa-Casa Grande Highway
• Maricopa –Casa Grande Highway from Murphy Road to Maricopa City limits
For more road closure information please contact Pinal County’s Road Closure Hotline at 520-866-6078.
There will be more road closure information when it becomes available.
(Source: Pinal County) | Pinal County | | | 1/24/2010 6:18 PM | Red Cross Shelter at Salome High School to Close Tonight |
(Jan. 24, 2010 – 6:18 p.m.) The American Red Cross shelter at Salome Bicentennial High School will close tonight. It had nine guests last night who no longer need a place to stay.
The Red Cross will continue to provide mobile feeding to residents of Wenden as needed. Additionally, the Red Cross will participate in a Recovery Center for residents of Wenden at a date and time not yet determined, providing information and services.
The American Red Cross Grand Canyon Chapter has closed its shelter in Payson. It had one overnight guest last night. The shelter at San Carlos High School has also been closed. Additionally, the shelter in Cibeque has closed as the power has been restored.
Red Cross volunteers will provide water, snacks and comfort kits at a Recovery Center in Black Canyon City tomorrow from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.
Volunteers have deployed Emergency Response Vehicles to Black Canyon City and Wenden today to deliver meals and snacks to those residents who have returned home to clean and repair their homes.
Disaster assessment teams continue to gauge damage to homes, while Red Cross client caseworkers work with families to make long-term recovery plans.
Our website will continue to have up-to-date information on our relief and recovery efforts. Visit www.arizonaredcross.org
If anyone has been impacted by the recent winter storms and needs Red Cross emergency assistance, please call 1-800-842-7349.
CURRENTLY ALL SHELTERS ARE CLOSED.
(Source: American Red Cross Grand Canyon Chapter) | Red Cross, shelter, Wenden, Salome | | | 1/24/2010 3:38 PM | State Resources Continue Statewide Emergency Assistance |
(Jan. 24, 2010 – 3:38 p.m.) The State Emergency Operations Center (SEOC) remains activated and continues to coordinate statewide assistance in the wake of last week’s powerful winter storm.
The Arizona Division of Emergency Management (ADEM) activated the state incident management team operating out of Holbrook to coordinate humanitarian efforts on the Hopi and Navajo Nations. Coordination is underway with the Civil Air Partol to provide aerial assessments of snow packed and flooded areas.
Additionally, an Emergency Management Assistance Compact (EMAC) request for helicopters was today filed by the State and is being fulfilled by the Nevada National Guard. One Chinook and two Blackhawk helicopters will report to Flagstaff.
A second incident management team is working with La Paz County in providing assistance and assessing damage. Residents have been allowed back into Wenden.
ADEM is working with the Arizona Department of Housing and its federal partners to assess damage in Black Canyon City and other locations, and establish mobile temporary housing for those residents who need such assistance.
Government agencies urge people to limit travel to the northern part of the state. Road conditions, power outages, avalanche risks, parking and a multitude of other issues have created a very difficult situation for those living and working in the area. Tourists or those traveling for non-critical reasons should not attempt travel to affected areas.
Arizona Department of Transportation has reopened all major interstates and roadways with the exception of SR89A between Sedona and Flagstaff. The Arizona Department of Public Safety cautions travelers that many open roadways still have difficult driving conditions. It is best to avoid travel to Northern Arizona until conditions improve. For more information on travel conditions across the state, call 5-1-1 or visit www.az511.gov.
Although most water sources in Arizona have not been contaminated by flooding damage by this storm, some areas served by private wells and small water systems may have been affected.
Contaminated water should not be used for drinking or making ice, cooking or preparing food, or personal hygiene.
Water from a known contaminated source should be boiled. Boiling is the preferred way to kill harmful bacteria and parasites. Bringing water to a rolling boil for one minute will kill most organisms. For additional information about boil water advisories, visit www.azdhs.gov.
Despite the break in weather, another storm system is expected to enter Arizona Tuesday. Residents are asked to stay on top of news reports and vigilant in their preparedness. The public is reminded to know and apply the three basic emergency preparedness steps - Prepare a Plan, Make a Kit and Be Informed.
Visit the Arizona Emergency Information Network (AzEIN) website at www.azein.gov for current incident information, including shelter locations and links to the NWS and ADOT. Visitors can also find detailed steps on how to get all-hazard ready.
(Source: Arizona Division of Emergency Management) | Arizona Division of Emergency Management | | | 1/24/2010 2:19 PM | All Shelters in Gila County Closed |
(Jan. 24, 2010 – 2:19 p.m.) As of noon today all shelters in Gila County are closed.
Citizens that need to request assistance or report storm related damage to homes or businesses may call the county emergency HOTLINE and leave a name, address and contact phone number. Personnel will return calls as soon as possible.
Gila County Emergency HOTLINE: (928) 402-8888 or (800) 304-4452 extension 8888
(Source: Gila County) | Gila County, shelter | | | 1/24/2010 12:32 PM | State, Counties Coordinate With Navajo Nation, Hopi Tribe to Provide Relief |
(Jan. 24, 2010 – 12:32 p.m.) In the first meeting of its kind, the Navajo County Emergency Management team hosted representatives from Coconino County, Apache County, the Navajo Nation, the Hopi Tribe, and the Arizona Division of Emergency Management throughout Saturday, Jan. 23, and Sunday, Jan. 24, in a joint effort to mount a coordinated response to the worsening conditions in communities north of Interstate 40.
“The winter storms of the last week have had a devastating impact on the reservation communities of the Navajo Nation and Hopi Tribe,” explained Navajo County Emergency Manager Dusty Parsons. “The combination of heavy snowfall followed by heavy rainfall has produced dangerous conditions for residents and drivers. A situation of this magnitude requires more than a piecemeal response.”
Parsons explained that the high levels of precipitation have caused localized flooding, isolating individual residents and entire neighborhoods. The situation has become particularly dangerous for residents with serious medical conditions.
In a coordinated effort to an unprecedented and historic degree, the joint interagency team from the state, three counties, and two tribes strategized to deploy resources to provide humanitarian assistance to the people of the Navajo Nation and the Hopi Tribe. The missions which are expected to begin within the next 24 hours will include:
• Medical/health supplies and rescue
• Food and water supplies
• Heating fuel (wood, coal, propane); and lastly
• Livestock
Parsons expressed his thanks to Governor Brewer for her willingness to deploy staff from the Division of Emergency Management. “The staff and resources from the state have been pivotal in our efforts to coordinate an effective response,” Parsons said. “Governor Brewer’s declaration of emergency and subsequent deployment of resources has made an enormous difference.”
“We have large numbers of residents who need medication and other supplies that we can’t reach because of impassible snow packed and flooded roads,” reported Navajo Nation Emergency Operations Center Liaison Herman Shorty. “In some cases, it may even become necessary to air-evac[uate] some residents.”
Supervisor Jesse Thompson thanked the three northern Arizona counties for their assistance to the residents of the Navajo Nation and the Hopi Tribe. “It’s during difficult times like these that you find out who your friends are. I’m grateful and proud to call these counties a friend.”
(Source: Navajo County) | Navajo, Hopi, Coconino, Apache, Arizona | | | 1/24/2010 11:52 AM | Gila County Establishes Hotline for Citizens to Report Storm Damage |
(January 24, 2010 – 11:50 a.m.) Many communities have experienced damage during the recent series of storms to hit Arizona.
In Gila County, citizens can report storm related damage to homes or businesses by calling the county emergency HOTLINE and leaving a name, address and contact phone number. Personnel will return calls as soon as possible.
Gila County Emergency HOTLINE:
(928) 402-8888 or (800) 304-4452 extension 8888
(Source: Gila County Emergency Management) | | | | 1/24/2010 10:42 AM | Fire Managers Plan Monday Burn of Slash Piles |
(Jan. 24, 2010 – 10:42 a.m.) Prescott National Forest fire managers plan to burn accumulated slash piles on Monday, Jan. 25, through Friday, Jan. 29; weather conditions permitting. The piles are located on Spruce Mountain, various locations in Groom Creek and Ponderosa Park.
Specific days to burn are determined by current and expected weather patterns. Depending on conditions, any of the areas may be treated during the five-day period. These piles will be monitored and allowed to completely burn themselves out. Smoke may be visible in the surrounding areas.
This project is part of an ongoing effort to improve forest health by reintroducing fire into the ecosystem, reducing hazardous fuels, and creating defensible space around residential and high use areas.
The public can obtain fire information via the following:
· Prescott NF Fire Information Hotline: 928-777-5799
· Prescott NF Forest Website: www.fs.fed.us/r3/prescott
· Bradshaw Ranger District: 928-443-8000
· Verde Ranger District: 928-567-4121
(Source: Prescott National Forest) | Prescott National Forest | | | 1/23/2010 9:40 PM | Evacuation of Wenden Lifted; Residents Asked to Boil Water |
(Jan. 23, 2008 - 9:40 p.m.) An evacuation of Wenden, Ariz., caused by flooding of adjacent Centennial Wash, has been lifted as of Saturday afternoon.
Residents of Wenden who stayed in American Red Cross shelters were notified by La Paz County officials shortly after making the determination to lift the evacuation order. Wenden is located about 110 miles west of Phoenix.
Holly Irwin, La Paz County Supervisor District 3, facilitated the damage assessment conducted by county specialists, and expressed thanks and gratitude to Wenden citizens for their patience and cooperation while the emergency occurred.
Tom Simmons, interim director of La Paz County Public Works Department, took assessment of damage to local roads into account and was able to open all roads, although he cautioned residents to maintain vigilance when driving where damage is visible.
Marion Shontz, director of La Paz County Health Department, determined that that 98 percent of all the septic systems in the town were not damaged. The department will provide a staff member to aid residents who need permits for repairs.
In addition, officials with Wenden Water Works said water lines were in good shape and that no breaches were detected but recommend water customers boil water.
According to the Arizona Department of Health Services, boiling water is the preferred way to kill harmful bacteria and parasites. Bringing water to a rolling boil for 1 minute will kill most organisms. For additional information about boil water advisories, visit www.azdhs.gov.
The American Red Cross has consolidated its two emergency shelters that were opened in response to the Wenden flood. One shelter currently remains open. It is located at:
Salome Bicentennial High School, 67488 E. Salome Rd.; Salome, AZ 85348
For emergency bulletins regarding the winter weather emergency in Arizona, and for further preparedness information, go to the Arizona Emergency Information Network at www.AzEIN.gov.
(Source: La Paz County) | La Paz County, Wenden, evacuation, water | | | 1/23/2010 7:03 PM | Emergency Shelter Opened in Gila County; Call Hotline for Updates |
(Jan. 23, 2010 – 7:03 p.m.) The Town of Payson and Gila County have opened a Red Cross emergency shelter at Payson High School Old Gym located at 301 South McClane Street.
Temperatures in the northern Gila County area are expected to drop into the low 20’s tonight. Residents still experiencing power outages are encouraged to use the shelter until services can be stabilized.
If you still do not have power, please report it to APS at 1-800-253-9405.
The shelter in Tonto Basin is now closed.
Emergency updates are posted as events occur on the Gila County Emergency HOTLINE: (928) 402-8888 or (800) 304-4452
(Source: Gila County) | Gila County, shelter | | | 1/23/2010 6:58 PM | Red Cross Grand Canyon Chapter Updates Shelter Locations |
(Jan. 23, 2010 – 6:58 p.m.) The Red Cross Grand Canyon Chapter opened a shelter in Payson, AZ, today at 2 p.m. to provide a safe place for residents impacted by the recent winter storms.
The shelter at Salome Elementary School is closing and residents of Wenden still requiring a safe place to stay are moving to the shelter at Salome Bicentennial High School.
The Red Cross continues to support partner organizations in San Carlos and Cibecue. Red Cross disaster assessment teams have been checking out affected areas today and will continue again tomorrow to gauge the damage.
Red Cross volunteers also deployed a mobile feeding unit to Black Canyon City today to feed approximately 100 people. Mobile feeding is also taking place in Wenden.
Our website will continue to have up-to-date information on our open shelters.
Open Shelters:
Payson High School - New Shelter Location
301 South McLane
Payson, AZ 85541
Public Information Officer – Mark Weldon, 602.819.9213
Salome Bicentennial High School
67488 E. Salome Rd.
Salome, AZ 85348
Public Information Officer – Tracey Kiest, 602.321.2173
San Carlos High School
Milepost 270, Highway 70
San Carlos, AZ 85550
Public Information Officer – Ruth Broos, 480.861.5613
Cibecue
Navajo County
(Source: Red Cross Grand Canyon Chapter) |
Red Cross, shelter | | | 1/23/2010 4:53 PM | Coconino County, Flagstaff List Snow Removal, Disposal Service Providers |
(Jan. 23, 2010 – 4:53 p.m.)The following options for snow disposal are available for residents and private businesses in Coconino County:
· Cinder Lake Landfill (off Highway 89, 6770 E. Landfill Rd., 928-527-1927). Costs for private debris/snow removal are not eligible for reimbursement by state and/or federal recovery efforts. Fees may apply when using the Cinder Lake Landfill:
o Commercial loads will be charged $2.50 per cubic yard. For example, if a contractor arrives with a 40-cubic yard roll-off full of snow, the fee will be $100.
o Residential customers in pick-up trucks or smaller vehicles will be charged based on regular landfill rates. City residents who arrive with a copy of their water bill and matching driver’s license will be able to dump snow free of charge. County residents will be charged the regular rate of $20 per pick-up truck load.
Hours of operation are regular landfill hours:
· Saturday, 7:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.
· Sunday, 10:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m.
· Monday through Friday, 7:00 a.m. to 4:30 a.m.
Other options include (please call first to inquire):
· Flagstaff Landscape Products, Old Rte. 66, next to Wildcat Wastewater Treatment Plant (no specific address), 928-526-0801, Monday through Friday, 8:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. The fee is $15 per semi-load. If you choose to haul a load there, please call after 6:00 a.m. on the day you would like to haul.
The following options for road/driveway snow removal are available:
· Adan Painting, Inc., 527-4642 (snow blower/shovels; sidewalks/driveways)
· Brian Smith, 380-9440 (snow blower/shovels; sidewalks/driveways)
· Flagstaff Equipment, 774-1969 (roads; not driveways)
· Flagstaff Native Plant & Seed, 380-4549
· Flagstaff Snow Removal, 699-1000
· Gaun’s Tree Service, 606-4371
· Get Plowed Snow Removal, 699-8210 (driveways and berms)
· HTR Commercial Snow Removal, 606-5727
· Joe Gaun Tree Stump & Plow, 699-6903 (driveways and berms)
· Magic Brush Painting & Snow Removal, 853-0624
· Morning Dew Landscaping, 779-3125 (commercial only)
The following options for roof snow removal are available:
· AAA Cut Rite: 853-9812 (Ryan)
· Arbor Ridge Tree & Yard Service: 607-0272 (Steve)
· Short Shingle & Shake: 699-6889
· Roof Answers: 774-5481; Available Monday, January 25
· Certa Pros Painters: 853-9064 (Jay Bowers)
· Bob Lee & Sons Tree Service: 978-1282, 203-9161, 978-1930; 2 bobcat loaders, shovels
· Flagstaff Equipment: 600-6322 (Chris Algya) Roofs, commercial snow plowing
· Major League Painting: 522-0590; All snow removal
· Superior Restoration: 225-3605; Damage from ice or water damage
· Stanley Steemer: 773-1299, 716-380-9543 (local call); 928-220-0204; 928-778-1095 Geno Dickinson
· Stellar Works: 773-1323 (Robert McGowan) Flagstaff and surrounding areas; residential and commercial
· Wilbac Construction: 773-0175; City and County
(Source: Coconino County) | Coconino County, snow, disposal, removal | | | 1/23/2010 4:39 PM | State Providing Support to Storm Ravaged Communities |
(Jan. 23, 2010 – 4:39 p.m.) As weather across the state begins to clear and communities start to assess damage from this week’s storms, Arizona emergency management officials continue to respond with life-saving resources for those affected by the consequences of heavy rain and snow.
The Arizona Division of Emergency Management (ADEM) has deployed two state incident management teams - one to Holbrook to coordinate the delivery of county and state resources to the Hopi and Navajo nations; and one to Wenden to assist La Paz County in its response to the flooded communities.
For those areas hardest hit, shelters remain open and critical emergency services, such as food, water and medical assistance, continue to be offered. Two mobile command centers have been deployed to provide critical communication with emergency services officials.
The Arizona National Guard is repositioning trucks, soldiers and Blackhawk helicopters to transport supplies and assist local agencies and tribal nations.
Government agencies are urging people to limit travel to the northern part of the state. Road conditions, power outages, avalanche risks, parking and a multitude of other issues have created a very difficult situation for those living and working in the area. Tourists or those traveling for non-critical reasons should not attempt travel to affected areas.
“While the skies are blue, the ground is still wet, and snow and ice have created very dangerous conditions,” said Lou Trammell, ADEM Director. “For those impacted by these storms, this is an ongoing and evolving situation. While it may seem like an ideal opportunity to head north and play in the snow, now is not the time.”
Arizona Department of Transportation continues to asses road conditions. Interstate 17 and Interstate 40, as well as US 60 have reopened. US89A between Sedona and Flagstaff remains closed. For more information on travel conditions across the state, call 5-1-1 or visit www.az511.gov.
Although most water sources in Arizona have not been contaminated by flooding damage by this storm, some areas served by private wells and small water systems may have been affected. Some small water systems have issued boil water orders. Boil water orders are issued to consumers of water systems when water lines are broken or there is a known contaminant in the water supply.
There are boil water orders issued in a few communities in Gila and La Paz counties, including Beaver Valley, Gisela Water Tanks and Salome/Vicksburg, where water is known or suspected to have been contaminated due to flooding or storm damage.
Contaminated water should not be used for drinking or making ice, cooking or preparing food, or personal hygiene. Water from a known contaminated source should be boiled. Boiling is the preferred way to kill harmful bacteria and parasites. Bringing water to a rolling boil for one minute will kill most organisms. For additional information about boil water advisories, visit www.azdhs.gov.
The State Emergency Operations Center is presently staffed with more than 30 liaisons from multiple government agencies, including Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) Region IX, the National Weather Service, the Arizona Department of Transportation (ADOT), the Arizona Department of Public Safety (DPS), the Arizona Department of Health Services (ADHS), the Arizona Division of Emergency Management (ADEM) and Arizona National Guard.
Despite the break in weather, Arizonans are asked to stay on top of news reports and vigilant in their preparedness. The public is reminded to know and apply the three basic emergency preparedness steps - Prepare a Plan, Make a Kit and Be Informed.
Visit the Arizona Emergency Information Network (AzEIN) website at www.azein.gov for current incident information, including shelter locations and links to the NWS and ADOT. Visitors can also find detailed steps on how to get all-hazard ready.
(Source: Arizona Division of Emergency Management) | Arizona, emergency, | | | 1/23/2010 3:44 PM | Coronado Forest Partially Closes Madera Canyon Road |
(January 23, 2010 - 3:44 p.m.) Madera Canyon Road on the Nogales Ranger District, Coronado National Forest, is partially closed due to weather-related conditions.
The road, which provides the only entry into Madera Canyon for vehicles, is open to Amphitheater Parking Area (milepost 12.5) for four-wheel drive vehicles only.
No traffic is permitted above that point due to snowy and icy conditions.
The road will be reopened when conditions improve.
(Source: Coronado National Forest) | Coronado National Forest | | | 1/23/2010 3:36 PM | Temporary Forest Order Closes Kachina Peaks Wilderness |
(Jan. 23, 2010 – 3:36 p.m.) In the interest of public safety, the Coconino National Forest has issued a temporary Forest Order closing the Kachina Peaks Wilderness area to any and all entry.
This order supersedes all Kachina Peaks Winter backcountry permits already issued this season. Any backcountry skiing, snowboarding or snowshoeing from Snowbowl is prohibited until further notice, and violators are subject to criminal penalty.
Additionally, popular Northern Arizona snow play areas, including Wing Mountain and other snow play sites in and around Flagstaff and Coconino County, will have limited access due to existing heavy snow accumulations impacting safe travel to and from Flagstaff.
This closure of the Kachina Peaks Wilderness area is based on recent storm activity and field observations of natural avalanche activity and snow instability. Furthermore, snow play areas have limited access to safe and legal parking, as well as diminished resources for public safety.
Public safety agencies are overwhelmed dealing with the aftermath of the severe winter storm, which limits their ability to respond to non-emergency/snow play calls, related traffic congestion and parking issues. Parking alongside the highway to play is not only illegal but can have deadly and or disastrous consequences.
The Coconino County Sheriff’s Office Search and Rescue personnel have conducted two search and rescue operations in hazardous weather conditions this week. Search and Rescue must make risk assessment decisions and will take into account rescuer safety before deploying personnel into the field. In other words, people entering the back country against the forest order issued, may be doing so at their own peril. This Forest Order will be cancelled as soon as conditions permit at which time Back Country permits will be valid again.
The Arizona Department of Public Safety (DPS) and Department of Transportation (ADOT) continue to urge motorists traveling on major interstates and highways to and from the high country to use caution and slow down accordingly for winter road conditions.
City and county roads to designated snow play areas may be open. However, the roads will be snow packed and icy as well as narrower than usual with the large amount of snow which has been plowed to the side. This being so, motorists must use caution in passing traffic traveling in the opposite direction.
For additional information regarding the Forest Order at the Kachina Peaks Wilderness area please refer to the Coconino National Forest website.
For more information about local snow play areas, accessibility and capacity, please contact the Flagstaff Visitor Center at 1-877-878-9377 or 928-774-9541, or visit their website.
Before traveling, please visit http://www.az511.gov or call 511 for the latest roadway conditions, closures and restrictions.
Also, please review the on-line information for traveling in snow conditions at http://www.azdot.gov/KnowSnow/
(Source: Arizona Department of Public Safety) | Public Safety, Coconino Forest, Kachina Peaks, Snowbowl | | | 1/23/2010 3:08 PM | Navajo Nation Reports Icy, Snowy Roads |
(Jan. 23, 2010 – 3:08 p.m.) The overnight snowfall left an additional two feet of snow on The Navajo Nation. Roads are icy and snow packed. More snow is expected across the region into Wednesday.
Snow melt results in extreme mud conditions on the Navajo Reservation, impacting residents in the most remote areas of the mountain regions.
Communities of Navajo Mountain; Shonto; Black Mesa; Chuska Mountains; Fort Defiance Plateau; south of Gallup; and New Mexico, including the Crownpoint. New Mexico areas to the south - Casamero Lake, Mariano Lake, and the Pinedale area - are impacted by heavy snowfall.
Mexican Water, east of the Chuska Mountains, declared a State of Emergency to have the main graveled road cleared on Wednesday.
The priority is keeping main roads clear. Navajo EOC is working with the Navajo Division of Transportation, neighboring counties of Apache and Navajo, and the Bureau of Indian Affairs.
Travel is discouraged. Motorists are advised to be cautious around heavy equipment. As the skies clear, the public will be traveling to border towns to stock up on supplies.
Necessary travel to and from remote locations is advised for the early morning hours with return trips late in the evening when the ground freezes over.
Travelers are advised to carry safety and survival equipment such as shovel, tire chains, extra winter clothing, winter shoes, blanket, flashlights with extra batteries, a battery-operated radio, cell phones with power supply, extra cell phone, matches, and emergency phone numbers and to travel in pairs.
In the last 48 hours, several rescue operations occurred. Rescues were successful with no loss of life.
Emergency response has been carried out overnight by Navajo Police Department. Calls are being received from people who are snowed in. Calls have been received from ranchers who have livestock stranded by the snowfall.
In the Western Agency, Birdspring community residents were evacuated due to flooding from the Little Colorado River on Wednesday.
Chapter governments have been advised to work with their respective communities. Regulations have been relaxed by the tribal government for each chapter to use emergency funds.
People needing assistance need to first contact their local chapter. People needing temporary shelter can rely on the local chapter or Senior Citizen Center. Chapters are assisting the EOC with assessments
The Navajo Emergency Operation Center is open and in full operation. The phone number is (928) 871- 6883.
(Source: The Navajo Nation) | Navajo Nation | | | 1/23/2010 12:29 PM | Red Cross Grand Canyon Chapter Shelters Update |
(Jan. 23, 2010 – 12:29 p.m.) As the most recent band of winter storms moved through the state this week, the Red Cross Grand Canyon Chapter responded by sheltering and feeding individuals displaced by the storm.
With the assistance of community partners, the Red Cross is already operating shelters in Salome, San Carlos, and Cibecue. More than 60 Red Cross volunteers and staff are in place providing a warm place to stay and a hot meal. More than 500 meals and snacks were provided to families in Red Cross shelters yesterday.
As of last night, the shelters in Cottonwood and Prescott were closed. The shelters in Black Canyon City and Tonto Basin were closed today. The people who were affected in those communities are no longer in need of shelter. The Red Cross is on standby should a need arise to provide additional support in those communities.
Open Shelters
Salome Bicentennial High School
67488 E. Salome Rd.
Salome, AZ 85348
Salome Elementary
38128 Saguaro & Main
Salome, AZ 85348
San Carlos High School
Milepost 270, Highway 70
San Carlos, AZ 85550
Cibecue Recreation Center
Cibecue, AZ 85911
(Source: American Red Cross Grand Canyon Chapter) | Red Cross, shelter | | | 1/23/2010 11:14 AM | Mountain Line Transit to Resume Service |
(January 23, 2010 – 11:15 a.m.) The Northern Arizona Winter Storm Emergency Operation Center announces that the Mountain Line Transit Bus Service will resume operation on a regular schedule today, Saturday, January 23, 2010 at 2:15 p.m. For more information please refer to the Mountain Line Transit web site at www.naipta.az.gov or call 928-779-6624.
(Source: Coconino County Sheriff’s Office) | | | | 1/23/2010 10:58 AM | Roof Loading Advisory for Homes in Northern Arizona |
(January 23, 2010 – 10:55 a.m.) The Northern Arizona Winter Storm Emergency Operation Center reports that public safety officials have responded to several problems with residential units in and around Northern Arizona.
Yesterday the City of Flagstaff issued an order requiring anyone with a flat or near flat roof to clear the roof of snow. The definition of a "flat roof" is roofs less than 2:12 slopes.
There is also the potential for damage in the form of warming temperature creating freeze–thaw conditions under the snow pack…resulting in ice dams.
Please refer to local businesses in your area that are equipped to remove snow from the eves of residential or businesses roofs.
We are working on a list of licensed, bonded, insured businesses from area telephone books that can be called. This will not be a complete list or the recommended list of businesses, only a preliminary reference to help guide businesses and citizens.
(Source: Coconino County Sheriff's Office) | | | | 1/23/2010 9:39 AM | Some Rural Arizona Communities Encouraged to Take Water Safety Precautions |
(January 23, 2010 – 9:45 a.m.) Although most water sources in Arizona have not and will not be contaminated by flooding damage by this storm, some areas served by private wells and small water systems may have been affected.
Some small water systems have issued boil water orders. Boil water orders are issued to costumers of water systems when water lines are broken or there is a known contaminant in the water supply. As of January 22, 2010 at 5 pm, there were boil water orders issued in a few communities in Gila and La Paz counties (Beaver Valley, Gisela Water Tanks, Salome/Vicksburg) where water is known or suspected to have been contaminated due to flooding or storm damage.
Contaminated water should not be used for drinking or making ice, cooking or preparing food, or personal hygiene. Water from a known contaminated source should be boiled as boiling is the preferred way to kill harmful bacteria and parasites. Bringing water to a rolling boil for 1 minute will kill most organisms.
When boiling water is not practical, you can treat water with chlorine tablets, iodine tablets, or unscented household chlorine bleach (5.25% sodium hypochlorite). These methods will not kill parasitic organisms.
• If you use chlorine tablets or iodine tablets, follow the directions that come with the tablets.
• If you use household chlorine bleach. Mix the correct amount of bleach thoroughly and let it stand for about 30 minutes before using it.
• For clear water, add 1/8 teaspoon (~0.75 mL) of bleach per gallon.
• For cloudy water, add 1/4 teaspoon (~1.50 mL) of bleach per gallon.
Note: Use a 10% bleach solution (9 parts water, 1 part bleach) to rinse water containers before reusing them. Use water storage tanks and other types of containers with caution. For example, fire truck storage tanks and previously used cans or bottles may be contaminated with microbes or chemicals. Do not rely on untested devices for decontaminating water.
If you use water from a well or cistern and were affected by flood waters, please ensure your water is safe before drinking. The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency has information on line to help sanitize your well. Please visit http://www.epa.gov/privatewells/whatdo.html or you can call the Safe Water Hotline between 10 am and 4 pm Eastern time, Monday through Friday.
(Source: Arizona Department of Health Services)
| | | | 1/23/2010 8:25 AM | I-17 Northbound Reopens; All Arizona Interstates Now Open |
(January 23, 2010 – 8:20 a.m.) Following intense winter storms, all of Arizona’s interstates are again open to traffic.
The Arizona Department of Transportation reopened northbound I-17 this morning from the Sedona turnoff (State Route 179) to Flagstaff after crews worked to drain runoff water from the highway. Southbound I-17 and both directions of I-40 from Kingman to Winslow were opened last night at 7 p.m.
I-40 and I-17 are important corridors for state and national freight hauling, and are important routes for travelers. Because of this importance, ADOT applied all available resources to opening both highways as quickly as possible.
While these critical routes are now reopened to all traffic, drivers are warned of continued threatening conditions. Blowing snow, flurries, drifts, high winds, low visibility and water running across roadways have been reported on both highways. Drivers are urged to use caution and to limit trips when possible. Roadways are passable, but conditions may change based on weather conditions. Drivers should also be alert to possible roadway damage and reduce travel speeds.
Both I-17 and I-40 were closed on Thursday afternoon when an intense winter storm pounded the state, dropping more than two feet of snow. ADOT responded by actively working to assist motorists, support Department of Public Safety officers and complete repairs and snow removal as quickly as possible.
Heavy snow created unsafe conditions along both stretches of interstates traveling to or through Flagstaff. ADOT and DPS worked together with local agencies to protect motorists, including commercial truck drivers, who easily could have become stranded or involved in crashes in the snow packed and icy conditions.
Other ADOT highways of note:
* State Route 87 closed (including off-road areas) between Bush Highway and State Route 188, south of Payson.
* State Route 89A between Sedona and Flagstaff remains closed and is expected to reopen Saturday.
* State Route 260 closed between McNary and Eagar due to blowing and drifting snow.
* State Route 273 closed approaching Sunrise Ski Resort due to heavy snow.
For more information on travel conditions across the state, call 5-1-1 or visit www.az511.gov. For winter driving tips, visit www.azdot.gov/KnowSnow.
(Source: Arizona Department of Transportation)
| | | | 1/22/2010 8:18 PM | Navajo Nation Declares State of Emergency |
(Jan. 22, 2010 – 8:18 p.m.) The Navajo Nation Commission on Emergency Management and Navajo Nation President, Joe Shirley Jr., declared a State of Emergency Thursday, Jan. 21st, based on assessments received from communities impacted by the winter weather and the continuing snowfall with more to come in the weather forecast.
A priority at this time is keeping all main roads opened and maintained. Conditions will be monitored through assessments as the weather continues throughout the weekend.
Navajo Division of Transportation has joined efforts with the Bureau of Indian Affairs and Counties to keep main roads clear. Private roads cannot be graded due to additional need for environmental and archaeological clearances. Residents are responsible for clearing private roads. An exception will be made for emergency response.
Yesterday, Birdsprings Chapter residents were evacuated to hotels in the area due to flooding from the Little Colorado River.
An individual deemed lost near Klagetoh Chapter, just south of Ganado, Arizona; yesterday evening was safely located today.
Many communities along the Chuska and Defiance Plateau report up to 3 feet of snow. Concern is increasing over livestock due to the lack of forage and excessive water beneath the wet snow.
The Navajo Nation Incident Command Systems has been activated and the Emergency Operation Center will be at the Navajo Staff Development and Training Center, Room C, in Window Rock. Navajo Area Indian Health Service has also activated the Incident Command.
(Source: Navajo Nation) | Navajo Nation, emergency, declaration | | | 1/22/2010 6:02 PM | ADOT Issues Roadways Update |
(Jan. 22, 2010 – 6:02 p.m.) The Arizona Department of Transportation (ADOT) will reopen I-40 in both directions from Flagstaff at 7 p.m. Friday. The highway had been closed from Kingman to Winslow, a 180-mile stretch across Northern Arizona.
I-17 will reopen at the same time for southbound traffic only. On Saturday morning, I-17 northbound from the Sedona turnoff (State Route 179) is expected to open, allowing time for additional runoff to drain from the highway.
While these critical routes will be reopened to all traffic, drivers are warned of continued threatening conditions. Blowing snow, flurries, drifts, high winds, low visibility and water running across roadways have been reported on both highways. Drivers are urged to use caution and to limit trips when possible. Roadways are passable but conditions may change based on weather conditions. Drivers should also be alert to possible roadway damage and reduce travel speeds.
Both I-17 and I-40 were closed on Thursday afternoon when an intense winter storm pounded the state, dropping more than two feet of snow. ADOT responded by actively working to assist motorists, support DPS officers and complete repairs and snow removal as quickly as possible. I-40 and I-17 are important corridors for state and national freight hauling, and are important routes for travelers. Because of this importance, ADOT applied all available resources to opening both highways as quickly as possible.
Heavy snow created unsafe conditions along both stretches of the interstate traveling to or through Flagstaff. ADOT and the Arizona Department of Public Safety worked together with local agencies to protect motorists, including commercial truck drivers, who easily could have become stranded or involved in crashes in the snow packed and icy conditions.
Other ADOT highways of note:
· State Route 87 closed (including off-road areas) between Bush Highway and State Route 188, south of Payson.
· State Route 89a between Sedona and Flagstaff remains closed and is expected to reopen Saturday.
· State Route 260 closed between McNary and Eagar due to blowing and drifting snow.
· State Route 273 closed approaching Sunrise Ski Resort due to heavy snow.
For more information on travel conditions across the state, call 5-1-1 or visit www.az511.gov.
For winter driving tips, visit www.azdot.gov/KnowSnow.
(Source: Arizona Department of Transportation) | Arizona Department of Transportation, road, conditions, closures | | | 1/22/2010 5:47 PM | State Response to Storm Continues; Residents Asked to Remain Vigilant |
(Jan. 22, 2010 – 5:47 p.m.) State Emergency Operations Center (SEOC) at Papago Park Military Reservation activated yesterday, and is fully operational and facilitating interagency communication and resource requests from Arizona counties.
Arizona continues to receive rain and snow, which has caused power outages, flooding and landslides. The State continues to monitor National Weather Service (NWS) forecasts and the emergent consequences of yesterday’s record weather at the SEOC with regular briefings and through liaisons prepostioned across the State.
The SEOC is presently staffed with about 30 liaisons from multiple government agencies, including Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) Region IX, the Arizona Department of Transportation (ADOT), the Arizona Department of Public Safety (DPS), the Arizona Department of Health Services (ADHS), the Arizona Division of Emergency Management (ADEM) and Arizona National Guard.
The Arizona National Guard has pre-staged military vehicles and personnel at National Guard Armories throughout the State to assist local first-responders with emergency efforts. Military vehicles and personnel are standing by at the following National Guard Armories: Glendale, Bellemont, Prescott, and Show Low.
Helicopters are also on standby to support local agencies. Currently, Arizona National Guard vehicles are being used to transport sandbags to local agencies in La Paz County. ADEM has provided 50,000 sandbags thus far.
Arizona National Guard UH-60 helicopters (Blackhawks) are also scheduled to airlift bottled
water and, if needed, to assist local agencies evacuate injured residents from Black Canyon City in Yavapai County.
Power outages continue to happen around the State. The Arizona Department of Health Services (ADHS) has therefore compiled a series of recommendations for assessing food safety after an extended power outage. The public should not consume food that has had contact with flood waters. If there is any question, ADHS says to apply the adage of “When in doubt, throw it out.”
Disaster relief agencies, the American Red Cross Grand Canyon Chapter and The Salvation Army, are likewise represented at the SEOC and responding to needs as they arise.
The Salvation Army is mobilizing to feed 45 to 55 people at Flagstaff Shelter Services, a homeless community shelter, as a result of a disruption in normal feeding procedures. Shelters are open or opening in Apache, Gila, La Paz, Navajo, Pima and Yavapai counties, and Tohono O’Odham Nation.
Despite sporadic breaks in weather, Arizonans are asked to stay on top of news reports and vigilant in their preparedness. The public is reminded to know and apply the three basic emergency preparedness steps - Prepare a Plan, Make a Kit and Be Informed.
Part of staying informed is to visit the Arizona Emergency Information Network (AzEIN) website at www.azein.gov for current incident information, including shelter locations and links to the NWS and ADOT. Visitors can also find detailed steps on how to get all-hazard ready.
(Source: Arizona Department of Emergency and Military Affairs) | | | | 1/22/2010 5:47 PM | Pinal County Road Restrictions Closures Due to Storm Runoff and Damage |
(January 22, 2010 – 5:50 p.m.) Pinal County Public Works announces the following road closures and restrictions as of 5:00 pm, Friday, January 22.
Pinal County Emergency Management Director, Lou Miranda said the county’s Emergency Operations Center will be on a virtual activation over the weekend.
"Just because the storm is moving out of the area does not mean we will let our guard down,” Miranda said. “We will continue to update the Board of Supervisors and monitor all weather related activities in our jurisdictions and tribal agencies. We will remain vigilant until the storm and its related effects are finished. We made significant
progress today and look to make more over the weekend.”
Please take all precautions before you head out on the roads over the weekend.
- Stay indoors – only travel if absolutely necessary
- Avoid downed power lines
- Obey all traffic signals and never go around barricades
- Never, never drive into a flooded area. Even if you know the area, you
cannot tell how deep the water is, what dangers may lurk underneath or
how fast the current is moving.
- Reduce your speed so you can react and avoid road debris or emergency
situations. Do not use cruise control.
- Avoid driving through large puddles. Hidden debris could damage your
- tires, you could lose control of the vehicle or water could splash up
- into your engine compartment causing serious problems.
- If your wipers are on, your headlights should be on, too.
District 1: REOPENED
Superior/KearnyHighway 177 between Superior and Kearny
District 1: CLOSED
ArizonaCityMilligan Road from Vail Road to Wheeler Road
Battaglia Road between Toltec Road and Cleator Street (Anticipate a 5:30 pm reopening)
Battaglia Road from Henness Road to Chu-Chu Road
Battaglia Road from Overfield to Sunland Gin Road (Remains Closed)
Sunland Gin Road from Greene Reservoir to Aries Road
RiversideCenturion Lane is closed between the Florence-Kelvin Highway and Athene Place
DudleyvilleSan Pedro Road at the San Pedro River Crossing
Oracle/Saddlebrooke/Oracle JunctionWillow Springs Road from Highway 77 to Freeman Road
Freeman Road from Highway 79 to Rio Camino Road
Southeast of FlorenceBarkerville Road from Florence-Kelvin Highway to Freeman Road
Mammoth/San ManuelAravaipa Road from Highway 77 heading east for 10 miles
River Road from Copper Creek Road to Reddington Road
Reddington Road from River Road to the Pima County line
Bluebird Street at Main Street (San Pedro River crossing in Mammoth)
Randolph/Coolidge/CACLa Palma Road from Shedd Road to Arica Road
Houser Road from La Palma Road to State Route 87
Shedd Road from La Palma Road to State Route 87
Hanna Road from Sunshine Boulevard to La Palma Road
District 2: REOPENED
San Tan ValleyHunt Highway between Copper Basin Road and Arizona Farms Road
Hunt Highway and Walker Granite Road
Gantzel Road north of Empire Road.
Gary Road between Judd Road and Magma Road
Skyline Road between Judy’s Road and Felix Road
Schnepf Road between Ocotillo Road and Laredo Road
Gantzel Road at the Pecan Creek subdivision
Apache Junction AreaGeronimo Road north of 10th Avenue
District 2: CLOSED
San Tan ValleyMagma Road between Hunt Highway and Stardust Drive
Sharon Drive from Lynn Lane to Kirk Drive
Queen Creek AreaKenworthy Road from Combs Road to Chandler Heights Road
QueenValleySilver King Road between El Camino Viejo and Jay Street
Hewitt Station Road from Queen Valley Road to U.S.
Florence please note: Construction continues on State Route 79 at the Gila River Bridge north of Florence. There are lane restrictions with traffic signals on the bridge. There may be delays during times of heavy traffic. Construction on the project is expected to be completed in one week weather permitting.
District 3: REOPENED
MaricopaMaricopa-Casa Grande Highway between White and Parker Road
Murphy Road
Stanfield AreaLouis Johnson Drive from Highway 347 to Green Road
Amarillo Valley Road between Century Road to Barnes Road
District 3: CLOSED
Stanfield AreaBarnes Road and Miller Road from Murphy Road to Stanfield Road
South of Casa GrandeTrekell Road and Hanna Road intersection
Casa Grande AreaPeters Road from Ethington to Corrales
Thornton Road from Hanna Road to Shedd Road
Randolph/Coolidge/CACCleman Road from 11 Mile Corner Road to State Route 87
Tweedy Road from Randolph Road to Kleck Road
MaricopaPorter Road at the Santa Rosa Wash
Rancho El Dorado Parkway at the Santa Rosa Wash
Farrell Road north and south of the Union Pacific Railroad
Farrell Road from Hartman Road to White and Parker Road
Hartman Road from Farrell Road to the Maricopa-Casa Grande Highway
Maricopa –Casa Grande Highway from Murphy Road to Maricopa City limits
For more road closure information please contact Pinal County’s Road Closure Hotline at 520-866-6078.
(Source: Pinal County Emergency Management)
| | | | 1/22/2010 5:36 PM | Northern Arizona Snow Play Options Limited for Weekend |
(Jan. 22, 2010 – 5:36 p.m.) Popular Northern Arizona snow play areas, including Wing Mountain and other snow play sites in and around Flagstaff and Coconino County, will have limited access due to existing heavy snow accumulations impacting safe travel to and from Flagstaff.
Other issues include safe and legal parking at snow play areas, as well as diminished resources for public safety. Public safety agencies are overwhelmed dealing with the aftermath of the severe winter storm.
Heavy snow accumulations will impact access from major interstates and highways to designated snow play areas. Although highways may be open, please use caution as roads will be snow packed and icy.
Parking at designated snow play areas will be limited because of the amount of snowfall and large accumulations of snow on highway shoulders. Parking on or along the highway is prohibited.
Public safety agencies are still dealing with issues related to the snow emergency and severe winter conditions, which limits their ability to respond to non-emergency/snow play calls, related traffic congestion and parking issues.
In addition, the Coconino National Forest has issued a temporary Forest Order closing the Kachina Peaks Wilderness Area to any and all entry, which means that any backcountry skiing, snowboarding, or snowshoeing from Arizona Snowbowl is prohibited until further notice, and violators are subject to criminal penalty.
For more information about local snow play areas, accessibility and capacity, please contact the Flagstaff Visitor Center at 1-877-878-9377 or 928-774-9541.
(Source: City of Flagstaff) | City of Flagstaff, Coconino County, Coconino National Forest, Wing Mountain, snow | | | 1/22/2010 5:31 PM | Navajo Area Indian Health Services Advises Residents to be Cautious |
(January 22, 2010 – 5:30 p.m.) Navajo Area Indian Health Service (NAIHS) advises residents of the Navajo Area to be cautious and avoid traveling if at all possible, particularly during winter weather conditions.
The Navajo Area I.H.S. Area Office Incident Command Team stood up on January 21, 2010 and is working with the Navajo Nation and other agencies to monitor the current weather situation and to assess critical needs in the Navajo Area. Staff will be on call in the event of emergency situations developing over the weekend.
With high snow levels in many areas and unpaved roads presenting challenges at this time, it may be very difficult for health care providers to reach the homes of family members who may need medications or have other medical needs. Public health nurses, working with Navajo Nation CHRs and other providers, will be working in local communities to identify patients who are snowbound with critical health needs.
Navajo Area I.H.S. and P.L. 93-638 contracted hospital emergency rooms and inpatient facilities remain open. In the event of a medical emergency, individuals should call or contact their local emergency room.
(Source: Navajo Area Indian Health Services)
| | | | 1/22/2010 5:28 PM | Avalanche Danger Closes Kachina Peaks Wilderness Area to All Access |
(Jan. 22, 2010 - 5:28 p.m.) The Northern Arizona Emergency Operation Center is announcing the closure of the Kachina Peaks Wilderness Area on the San Francisco Peaks due to extreme avalanche danger caused by recent excessive snowfall.
In the interest of public safety, the Coconino National Forest has issued a temporary Forest Order closing the Kachina Peaks Wilderness area to any and all entry. This order supersedes all Kachina Peaks Winter Backcountry permits already issued this season. Any backcountry skiing, snowboarding or snowshoeing from Snowbowl is prohibited until further notice, and violators are subject to criminal penalty.
This closure is based on recent storm activity and field observations of natural avalanche activity and snow instability. This week’s snowfall is on pace to be the greatest in over 30 years.
Coconino County Sheriff’s Office Search and Rescue personnel have conducted two search and rescue operations in hazardous weather conditions this week. Search and Rescue must make risk assessment decisions and will take into account rescuer safety before deploying personnel into the field.
This Forest Order will be cancelled as soon as conditions permit at which time Back Country permits will be valid again.
For additional information please refer to the Coconino National Forest website.
(Source: Coconino County, Coconino National Forest) | Kachina Peaks, Coconino County, Coconino National Forest | | | 1/22/2010 5:27 PM | Pima County Road Closure Update |
(January 22, 2010 – 5:30 p.m) Road conditions map
Road Closures - Red on the map
Map ID Description
9 Overton Rd at the Canada Del Oro Wash
17 Fort Lowell at the Agua Caliente Wash
25 Mark Rd from Jeffery Rd to Los Reales Rd
31 General Hitchcock Hwy (Mount Lemmon Hwy) closed to all traffic
41 Manville Rd between Reservation Rd and Avra Rd
53 La Cholla Blvd at the Canada Del Oro Wash
59 Soldiers Trail at the Agua Caliente Wash
67 Wentworth Rd at Tanque Verde Creek
85 Summit Street at the Franco Wash
106 Wilds Road in Catalina at the Canada Del Oro Wash
125 Old Vail Connection Road at the Franco Wash
148 Tanque Verde Loop Rd at Tanque Verde Creek
198 Old Nogales Hwy (closed at the 11300 blk)
Proceed with Caution - Yellow on the map
Map ID Description
16 Wilmot Road from Andrada Road to Sahuarita Road
22 Snyder Hill Rd from Sandario Rd to the edge of pavement
29 Speedway Boulevard east of Wentworth Rd
33 Valencia Rd. From Camino Verde to Ajo Hwy
45 Mission Rd from Valencia Rd to Drexel Rd
69 Redington Rd at the end of pavement - Road slippery
101 Pump Station Rd between Avra Valley Rd and El Tiro Rd
145 Country Club Road |
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