Waterman (AZA5S)

Wildfire Status:

The Waterman wildfire, caused by lightning, was first detected on July 24, 2024, near Congress, Arizona. As of July 31, 2024, the fire has been reported as 100% contained, with a total area burned of approximately 3,059 acres. Firefighters have successfully secured and mopped up along the fire's edge, with minimal heat and smoke observed in the final stages of containment.

Fire agencies responded promptly, utilizing various firefighting techniques throughout the incident. Initially, the fire was estimated at 300 acres with 0% containment and faced challenges from erratic winds caused by local thunderstorms. However, as the situation evolved, crews employed helicopter bucket drops and retardant applications, particularly on the fire's north and west sides, to control the spread. The incident transitioned to a type 4 organization, allowing many resources to be reallocated to other active fires once the containment was achieved.

Weather conditions played a significant role in the fire's behavior, with thunderstorms contributing to erratic winds, complicating suppression efforts. However, as the fire progressed towards containment, weather conditions improved, reducing fire activity and allowing crews to focus on securing firelines without the need for extensive aerial support. The successful containment of the Waterman fire highlights the effective coordination and hard work of the firefighting teams involved.

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Containment History:

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