The Flying V fire started on July 5 in the early afternoon and the cause is undetermined. Due to the fires growth and increasing complexity, the White Mountain Zone Type 3 Incident Management Team assumed command at 6:00pm on July 6, 2023. A full suppression strategy will be deployed to minimize impacts to highway 60 and protect tribal resources.
Operations: Fire activity has moderated, and suppression lines are holding. Firefighting resources will continue to patrol firelines, and aerial resources will be utilized to mitigate the fires spread. Fire crews will monitor the fire along Highway 60 and will look to improve and reinforce handlines and dozer lines.
Closures: A temporary emergency closure was implemented along highway 60, between mile posts 256-311, to provide for public and firefighter safety during fire suppression activities. There is no estimated time to reopen the highway. The White Mountain Apache Tribe has issued an executive order that went into effect at midnight on July 7, 2023. Beginning on July 8, there are no campfires allowed at the lakes, streams, or even in the community, and no yard burning. Wood cutting must be done before 10:00 a.m., and there is no wood cutting in the closure area.
Weather: Today’s forecast is calling for clear skies with a high of 95 degrees and winds from 10 to 20 mph.
Values at risk: Emory Oak grove in the area of Flying V, tribal sensitive species in surrounding areas, cattle and grazing areas, watershed and riparian areas, woodland areas, the Salt River recreation areas, the Highway 60 transportation corridor, communications towers on Brewer Hill, Cibecue Ridge, and north of Salt River Canyon.
Safety: Fire Wildfire smoke may impact Cibecue, White River, Carrizo, Cedar Creek, and the White Mountain communities. The public is encouraged to take precautionary measures.
Fire details:
Official fire information:
Inciweb: https://inciweb.wildfire.gov/incident-information/azwat-flying-v-fire
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/BIAFAAFireMgt
ADEQ Air QualityInformation: https://azdeq.gov/node/7077