Wildfires: San Rafael Fire reaches 17% containment amid milder weather

Wildfire season in Arizona began early, and is likely to be intense.

At a press conference in March, Gov. Doug Ducey said Arizona’s wildfire season could be even more catastrophic in 2022.

“I’m reluctant to call it wildfire season anymore because as our firefighters and fire officials know, Arizona faces the risk of wildfires year-round,” Ducey said.

In the first three months of 2022, approximately 90 fires were reported with a total of 627 acres burned. The state’s wildfire season typically starts in May.

Here is a roundup of wildfire updates across Arizona.

San Rafael Fire

(Last updated: May 11)

Location: 22 miles southeast of Patagonia

What we know: Weather conditions Tuesday allowed firefighters to increase containment on the east side of the fire and prevent its growth. Fire activity is decreasing but the fire is still active on the north, northeastern and western sides, according to the Arizona Department of Forestry and Fire Management.

A red flag warning will be in effect from 10 a.m. until 7 p.m. for some parts of Arizona east of the fire and winds with gusts up to 31 mph are forecasted. Lighter winds are expected Thursday, according to the National Weather Service in Tucson.

About 220 personnel are assigned to the fire.

Evacuations and closures: All evacuations were lifted and all areas were placed in “ready” status, except the Canelo South area which remains in “set.” Incident command asked people to stay out of the burn area.

The Arizona Trail from Parker Canyon Lake to Harshaw Road is closed as a result of the fire. Forest Road 799 is closed for firefighter safety, according to the department of Forestry and Fire Management.

About 80 people were evacuated as of Monday and the Red Cross has set up a shelter at the United Methodist Community Church at 387 McKeown Avenue in Patagonia.

Acreage: 11,620 acres

Containment: 17%

Fire start date: May 7

Crooks Fire

(Last updated: May 9)

Location: 11 miles south of Prescott What we know: Some closures remain in effect, although all evacuated neighborhoods are back to “ready” status. Red Flag conditions continue in the area. Despite weather conditions, fire crews have prevented growth and strengthened the northwest edge of the fire. About 199 personnel are assigned to the fire.

Evacuations and closures: The emergency closure area has been reduced, allowing the opening of Upper Goldwater Lake and additional trails north of County Road 101. According to Prescott National Forest, trails in Groom Creek and Spruce Mountain remain closed for public safety. All roads, trails and recreation sites including Upper and Lower Wolf Creek campgrounds and Palace Station remain closed within the closure area. As the fire management team will begin moving its camp out of Watson Lake, the city of Prescott may be allowed to re-open the lake later this week.

Acreage: 9,402 acres Containment: 96%

Fire state date: April 18

Tunnel Fire

(Updated May 10)

Location: Approximately 14 miles northeast of Flagstaff

What we know: Sunday’s high winds and temperatures led to some fire activity and crews are reinforcing lines around the active areas, according to Coconino National Forest. All evacuated areas have been allowed home. Firefighters have downgraded updates on the fire, and are in the process of mop up. About 70 personnel are assigned to the fire.

Evacuations and closures: The Tunnel Fire closure area was ordered on April 20 and will be in place until June 20 or until it is rescinded. A map of the area, which according to the Coconino National Forest officials includes the Cinder Hills OHV, can be found on the Forest Service website. Acreage: 19,088 acres Containment: 95%

Fire state date: April 17

Fires with 100% containment

Locklin Fire: 112 acres (Contained as of April 30)