Whiting Knoll Fire Quickly Winds Down - Final Update

Forest Service

Apache-Sitgreaves National Forests 30 S Chiricahua Drive

Springerville, AZ 85938

(928) 333-6280

Web: www.fs.usda.gov/asnf

Twitter: @A_SNFs www.facebook.com/apachesitgreavesnf

News Release

Media Contact: Apache-Sitgreaves National Forest

Phone: 928-333-6280

Whiting Knoll Fire

July 6, 2019 - Final Update

Location: Whiting Knoll

Cause: Lightning

Percent contained: 50%

Date Reported: June 30, 10 a.m.

Size: 2,280 acres

Fuel: Mixed Conifer, Ponderosa, grass understory

Resources assigned: 5 engines, 3 hand crews, 2 bulldozer, 1 helicopter, 1 water tender

Springerville, July 6, 2019 – For Immediate Release – Yesterday crews continued with back fire operations around the fire’s perimeter, consuming unburned fuels between the main fire and the fire line, bringing the fire to 50% containment. Navopache Electric Cooperative was able to access the tripped powerline, make repairs, and restore power by mid-day.

Today all main roads in the fire area are re-opened. Crews will monitor the fire and begin mop-up along the fire lines. This will be the final update on the Whiting Fire unless significant events occur.

Weather: An increasing chance of thunderstorms is expected across the White Mountains today through Sunday. Winds will be light but can become variable and gusty around approaching thunderstorms.

Safety: Smoke impacts will be light as fire activity winds down. U.S. Highway 60 between mileposts 370 and 379 may still be impacted by hazy conditions at times. Please drive with caution through areas impacted by smoke and fire.

Road Closures and Restrictions: All main roads in the fire area have been reopened. Visitors are reminded to be alert for fire crews and drive with caution through the area.

Individuals sensitive to smoke are encouraged to visit the Arizona Department of Health Services website at http://www.azdhs.gov/preparedness/epidemiology-disease-control/extreme-weather/index.php#wildfires-home for additional information regarding the dangers of wildfire and prescribed burn smoke and wildfire preparedness. Air quality data from across the state can be viewed at www.Phoenix.net/PPMmain.aspx.

Fire restrictions: The Apache-Sitgreaves National Forest is not currently in fire restrictions. Visitors are reminded to be very careful with fire. Never leave a fire unattended – even for a short time.

Additional Information on wildfire and wildfire safety can be found at:

• Northeastern Arizona Public Information System: http://311info.net/ or call 311 or 928.333.3412

• Arizona Fire Restrictions: http://firerestrictions.us/az/

• Fire Restrictions and Red Flag Alerts: http://wildlandfire.az.gov/