Waterman (AZA5S)

Wildfire Status:

The Waterman wildfire, which was ignited by lightning, was first detected on July 24, 2024, and is located approximately 15 miles northwest of Congress, Arizona. As of July 31, 2024, the fire has been reported as 100% contained after burning a total area of 3,059 acres. The containment efforts were bolstered by the diligent work of ground crews who secured the fire's perimeter, allowing for the release of remaining resources to assist with new incidents.

Throughout the firefighting efforts, various strategies were employed to combat the fire. Initially, the fire was estimated at 300 acres with 0% containment, but crews utilized firing operations to establish a secure fireline. As conditions fluctuated due to thunderstorms in the region, erratic winds posed challenges for air support and ground operations. However, by July 29, containment had increased to 50%, with minimal heat and smoke reported, leading to a transition to a type 4 organization for further resource management.

Weather conditions have played a significant role in the fire's behavior. The presence of thunderstorms resulted in outflow winds that complicated suppression efforts, particularly in the early stages of the fire. Despite these challenges, the coordinated efforts of engines, hand crews, and aerial support, such as helicopter bucket drops, contributed to progressively improving containment levels. The incident management teams have been proactive in adapting to the evolving situation, ensuring the safety of both the firefighters and the surrounding communities.

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Containment History:

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