2024 - West Fire - TNF (AZTNF)

Wildfire Status:

The West Fire, a lightning-caused wildfire, is currently active four miles northeast of Pine, Arizona, covering approximately 15,074 acres. The fire is being managed through a confine and contain strategy, aimed at safeguarding private lands and nearby communities such as Camp Geronimo, Geronimo Estates, and Bray Creek Ranch. This approach not only focuses on immediate fire containment but also seeks to reintroduce fire into a fire-dependent ecosystem, ultimately reducing hazardous fuel loads and enhancing watershed conditions and wildlife habitats. The management of the West Fire is being coordinated with the Preacher Fire under the leadership of Incident Commander Tadd Fagerud.

Fire response teams are actively engaged in managing the West Fire. They have implemented a temporary traffic route for residents of Geronimo Estates due to increased fire activity, redirecting access through Houston Mesa Road and limiting entry from HWY 87. Firefighters have been employing tactical patience, waiting for optimal conditions to apply fire to beneficially manage fuel loads while avoiding ignitions during excessively hot conditions. The Payson Hotshots, a local firefighting crew familiar with the area, have been instrumental in the containment efforts.

Weather conditions have been critical to fire management efforts. Current forecasts indicate that weather patterns may influence fire behavior, but specific details on temperature and humidity levels have not been provided in the available data. The fire agencies are closely monitoring these conditions to make informed decisions about fire suppression techniques. Additionally, the use of drones in the area has been prohibited to ensure safety for both firefighting personnel and the community, as unauthorized drones pose significant risks during wildfire operations.

Visit Inciweb Incident Page for more information. Information on this page is provided for informational purposes only.

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