Salt Gin and Griffin Fires Morning Update Thursday August 20 2020
Related Incident:
Publication Type: News
Salt Fire
Location: 11 miles north of Globe, AZ near the junction of Hwy. 188 and SR 288
Cause: Lightning
Percent containment: 0%
Fire Strategy: Full Suppression
Size: 13,000 acres
Vegetation: Sonoran Desert Grass and Brush
Gin Fire
Location: 5 miles northeast of Globe, AZ in the Apache mountains west of Hwy. 60
Cause: Lightning
Percent containment: 0%
Fire Strategy: Full Suppression
Size: 3,600 acres
Vegetation: Grass and Brush
Griffin Fire
Location: 1.5 miles north of the Gin Fire
Cause: Lightning
Size: 1000 acres
Percent containment: 0%
Vegetation: Grass and Brush
Fire Strategy: Full Suppression
Fire activity:
Salt Fire: There was minimal fire activity on the east side of Hwy. 188 yesterday. There were two small spot fires near Pringle Pump and a 4-acre spot fire on the west side of SR 288 that crews were able to contain. The fire was most active west of Hwy. 188. Heavy smoke impacted the 500 KV powerlines operated by SRP and APS yesterday afternoon. They expect the fire to be active in the Granite Basin area today. Crews will work to minimize impacts to the values at risk in the area which include communities near Wheatfields and Roosevelt, Pinto Valley Mine, APS/SRP powerlines, and Hwy 188/288.
Gin Fire: The fire was most active on the northwest side yesterday in the Apache Mountains. Firefighters are using bulldozers and heavy equipment to clear along the existing road system to connect FR 220 to FR 224 in order to secure the southwest flank of the fire.
Griffin Fire: The fire backed down hill yesterday to the east. This morning the fire has moved east and is impcting State Highway 60. ADOT has temporarily closed the highway in both directions. Visit AZ511.gov for the latest information. Today crews will scout the north and east sides of the fire looking for holding features they may use to create containment lines.
Communities Affected: As a result of the Salt Fire, the Gila County Sheriff's Office and Gila County Emergency Management have recommended that the following areas be placed on "SET" mode on the Ready Set, Go! model: areas on both sides of Hwy 188 from Bixby Road to the 188/288 junction all of Wheatfields. This includes the areas between H&E Ranch and Pringle Pump, Roosevelt Estates, Roosevelt Resort, Rockhouse, Spring Creek, Hay Hook, and Quail Run.
THESE COMMUNITIES ARE NOT IMMEDIATELY THREATENED, THE 'SET' NOTIFICATION IS A PREPARATORY MEASURE.
For more emergency alert information, visit http://www.readygila.com/
Smoke: Overnight smoke from all three fires has flowed down the Pinal Creek drainage and settled into the Roosevelt Lake area. Yesterday Wheatfields, and communities around Roosevelt Lake and Tonto Basin areas were most affected by smoke. The Globe-Miami area and San Carlos may also be impacted by smoke depending on prevailing winds. Salt Wildfire Smoke Forecast can be found at: https://azdeq.gov/WildfireForecast?fire=saltfire
Weather: Winds are expected to be from the southwest from 5 to 10 mph in the afternoon with the possibility of strong outflow winds from thunderstorms in the evening up to 23 mph. Temperatures will range from 74 to 97 with a 20 percent chance of rain in the afternoon.
Values: Fire fighter and public safety are the highest priorities on these fires. The fire area includes multiple communities, power lines, mines, range improvements and historical sites, which firefighters are working hard to assess and protect.
Closures and Restrictions: ADOT has Hwy. 188 closed from the north end of Wheatfields Rd. north to mile marker 232 near Roosevelt. SR 288 is closed from the junction of Hwy. 188 to FR 465. For more updates on highway closures and restrictions visit: https://www.az511.gov/
More Info: Official information on the fire can be found on these sites. Salt Fire Inciweb: https://inciweb.nwcg.gov/incident/7019/
Gin Fire Inciweb: https://inciweb.nwcg.gov/incident/7017/
Griffin Fire Inciweb: https://inciweb.nwcg.gov/incident/7020/
Incident Facebook Page: https://www.facebook.com/Salt-Gin-Griffin-Fire-100936588404764/?modal=admin_todo_tour
Rain Temporarily Slows Fire Activity in Areas
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Publication Type: News
Griffin Fire: 61, 869 acres 28% contained Cause: Lightning Grass and Brush
The Griffin Fire (started 8/17) has merged with the Gin Fire (started 8/16) and Champion Fire (started 8/23).
Location: 5 miles northeast of Globe, AZ in the Apache mountains west of Hwy 60
Salt Fire: 21,670 acres 71% contained Cause: Lightning Desert Grass and Brush
Started 8/17 Location: 11 miles north of Globe, AZ near the junction of Hwy. 188 and SR 288
Meddler Fire: 4,452 acres 20% contained Cause: Under Investigation Grass and Brush
Started 8/24 Location: 7 miles northeast of Roosevelt, AZ.
Resources: 416 total including: 10 Crews; 28 Engines; 6 bulldozers; 6 water tenders; 4 helicopters
Rain Temporarily Slows Fire Activity in Areas; Firefighters Respond to New Lightning Starts
Ko’ Ba Nagoni i’
Portions of the Griffin Fire received minimal precipitation the past two evenings which temporarily helped reduce fire activity in those areas. East of Highway 60 firefighters will take advantage of reduced fire activity to construct direct fireline where possible and prepare contingency fireline along existing roads and dozer line to secure the north and east flanks of the fire. Highway 60 remains closed between Globe and Show Low, firefighters are constructing direct and indirect fireline where possible and may have to conduct burnout operations using the roadway as an anchor to keep the fire east of the Highway.
West of Highway 60 crews will monitor and hold existing firelines and prep the area around Tucker Ranch. The portion of the Griffin Fire west of Highway 60 has been inactive over the last several days.
The south flank of the fire on the San Carlos Reservation has been inactive the past few days. Crews will continue to hold and monitor lines in this area.
There was a new lightning fire discovered yesterday evening northeast of the Griffin Fire between the fire’s edge and the 1300 road contingency line. Crews will assess that fire this morning and determine how to best to protect values at risk in the area. Two super scooper aircraft will be assisting the nearby Rockhouse Fire today. Firefighters are prepared to respond to potential new starts from recent lightning storms as needed.
Fire activity and movement will continue to be driven by dry fuels, terrain, slope and potential of winds from thunderstorms through the area. We are expecting higher temperatures and lower humidity over the fire area for the next several days. The chance of afternoon thunderstorm buildup and outflow winds will remain a concern for public and firefighter safety.
Minimal fire activity has been observed on the Salt Fire and Meddler Fires. Firefighters continue to monitor the Salt Fire and three engines continue to monitor and patrol firelines on the Meddler Fire.
Firefighters are focused on protecting values at risk where they can do so safely and effectively. Challenges include extreme temperatures, steep and remote terrain, and lightning and outflow winds associated with thunderstorms. Firefighter and public safety are the highest priority. Firefighters are working to protect local communities, power lines, mines, range improvements, historical, cultural, ceremonial sites and natural resources. Fire managers are working with nearby Incident Management Teams and agency administrators to share resources where they are needed most.
The communities along the east side of Highway 60 (north of Globe) from ADOT yard north to Winters Ranch including Johnson Ranch and McMillianville remain in a “Go” evacuation Status. The San Carlos communities of Upper Gilson and Skill Center have returned to “Ready” status. For emergency alert and Red Cross evacuation information, visit http://www.readygila.com/. Ready-Set-Go Evacuation Information Program: https://ein.az.gov/ready-set-go
Today and tomorrow, smoke during the afternoon is expected to move toward the east/southeast with light to moderate impacts likely through the day in San Carlos and Peridot. There will be a continued chance for afternoon thunderstorms along with gusty outflow winds. As outflows move through the region, fire activity may increase, resulting in more smoke production. Outflow winds may also push brief pockets of moderate to heavy smoke into Globe-Miami and Roosevelt. Expect hazy conditions with periods of light to moderate smoke impacts for all communities surrounding the fires. Overnight smoke will move into the drainages and low lying areas adjacent to the fire. Smoke from the Medicine Fire is expected to combine with smoke from the Griffin Fire, causing heavier smoke impacts throughout the night into the early morning hours in San Carlos, Peridot, and possibly Globe-Miami. The heaviest of impacts are expected between 2 am and 9 am with the smoke lifting out by 10 am. For the latest Wildfire Smoke Forecast visit https://azdeq.gov/WildfireForecast.
Highway 60 is closed north of Globe from S. Parker Street (MM251) north to MM318. Highways 188 and 288 are open. Visit https://az511.gov or call 511 for current status. Road 1300, near Highway Tanks, Road 900, are closed on the San Carlos Apache Reservation. Please be careful while driving in the fire area as firefighters are working along roadways and travelling through communities to reach the fires.
The Tonto National Forest has issued a Public Safety Closure Order for the areas impacted by these fires. More info: https://www.fs.usda.gov/alerts/tonto/alerts-notices or https://inciweb.nwcg.gov/incident/closures/7019/, https://inciweb.nwcg.gov/incident/closures/7020/, and https://inciweb.nwcg.gov/incident/closures/7072/
Wildfires are a No Drone Zone. If you fly, we can’t. Every time a drone is spotted near the fire all aircraft are grounded until we can be sure the drone is clear of this area. More info visit: http://knowbeforeyoufly.org.
Fire Information: 928-421-4539 (public) 928-421-4579 (media)
Griffin Fire Inciweb: https://inciweb.nwcg.gov/incident/7020/
Salt Fire Inciweb: https://inciweb.nwcg.gov/incident/7019/
Meddler Fire Inciweb: https://inciweb.nwcg.gov/incident/7072/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/SaltGinGriffinFire/ and https://www.facebook.com/SCATFORESTRY/
Highway Closures and Restrictions: Call 511 or visit https://www.az511.gov/
Salt Operations Update Video August 28 2020
Related Incident:
Publication Type: Announcement
The Salt Fire Operations Update Video for August 28, 2020 with Planning Operations Trainee Caleb Finch is now available on the Salt Gin Griffin Fire Information Facebook page at http://bit.ly/OpsUpdateVideo
There is also an option to watch the video in Apache
Griffin Fire Grows to Northeast Ko Ba Nagoni i
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Publication Type: News
Griffin – Meddler – Salt Fires, August 27, 2020 Morning Update
Salt Fire Cause: Lightning Percent containment: 71%
Location: 11 miles north of Globe, AZ near the junction of Hwy. 188 and SR 288 Size: 20,838 acres
Vegetation: Sonoran Desert Grass and Brush
Fire Strategy: Full Suppression
Griffin Fire
Location: 5 miles northeast of Globe, AZ in the Apache mountains west of Hwy. 60 Cause: Lightning Percent containment: 28%
Vegetation: Grass and Brush Size: 60,075 acres
Fire Strategy: Full Suppression
Meddler Fire Cause: Under Investigation Percent containment: 20%
Location: 7 miles northeast of Roosevelt, AZ Size: 5,142 acres
Vegetation: Grass and Brush
Fire Strategy: Full Suppression
Resources: 537 total including: 12 Crews; 35 Engines; 5 bulldozers; 11 water tenders; 6 helicopters
Griffin Fire Grows to Northeast Ko’ Ba Nagoni i’
Last night a thunderstorm moved across the southern portion of the Griffin Fire bringing lightning and some rain. An “Initial Attack” contingent of firefighters from the team are on standby to respond to any new fires in the area that may result from the lightning.
Take the time to become familiar with the Ready-Set-Go Evacuation information before you see smoke in your community. More information is available at: https://ein.az.gov/ready-set-go
Overview
The communities along the east side of Highway 60 (north of Globe) from ADOT yard north to Winters Ranch including Johnson Ranch and McMillianville are in a “Go” evacuation Status.
The San Carlos communities of Upper Gilson and Skill Center have returned to “Ready” Status.
Highway 60 is closed north of Globe from S. Parker Street (MM251) north to MM318 www.az511.gov
Fire activity and movement will continue to be driven by dry fuels, terrain, slope and potential of winds from thunderstorms through the area. We are expecting higher temperatures and lower humidity over the fire area for the next several days. The chance of afternoon thunderstorm buildup and outflow winds will remain a concern for public and firefighter safety.
Highways 188 and 288 are open.
Road 1300, near Highway Tanks, Road 900, and Indian Route 6, Old San Carlos Highway, are closed on the San Carlos Apache Reservation. Please be careful while driving in the fire area as firefighters are working along roadways and travelling through communities to reach the fires.
UPDATE
Griffin Fire (merged with Champion Fire):
The fire continued to exhibit active fire behavior yesterday. Residual heat and overnight fire spread contributed to an active fire edge that increased in fire activity early in the shift. The northeast flank continues to be very active north of the Sevenmile Mountains in heavy brush and timber. An active edge of fire from Winters Ranch south down the Hwy 60 corridor continued to advance to the west. As winds switched to the west-southwest in the mid-afternoon fire behavior began to moderate and push away from Highway 60. Winds are forecast to be from the southwest today from 5-10 mph with gusts to 15 mph with the possibility of afternoon thunderstorms.
Today, firefighters are in place to help protect residences and other values at risk in the Highway 60 corridor and will build direct line and burn out if necessary, along the east side of Highway 60 to keep the fire from crossing the highway. Crews were able to secure the south flank of the fire and will hold and improve those firelines today. On the east side of the fire, firefighters will build direct line where possible and continue to prepare contingency lines from the Cassadore Springs Fire scar south to the Quail Fire scar. On the northwest corner, west of Highway 60 firefighters continue to protect the Griffin, Winters, McMillianville, Adobe, Haystack and Tucker Ranches and keep fire south of FR 303 (Sevenmile Wash Rd). Please continue to be on the lookout for fire equipment and personnel as they drive through San Carlos and the Sevenmile communities to access the fires.
Communities Affected:
The communities along the east side of Highway 60 from the ADOT yard north to Winters Ranch, including Johnson Ranch and McMillianville are in a “Go” evacuation Status.
The following communities on San Carlos Reservation have moved from “Set” to “Ready” status: Upper Gilson and Skill Center.
For emergency alert and Red Cross evacuation information, visit http://www.readygila.com/.
Meddler Fire:
Minimal fire activity was observed on the fire yesterday. Crews will hold and improve fireline along FR 203 on the north edge of the fire and hold the fire along a two-track road on the east flank as well. Firefighters are working to mitigate threats to 5 residences, 10 outbuildings, and 500kV powerlines. Structure prep work is being conducted in the Rockhouse Community, Dagger Ranch, and Coon Creek Ranch.
Salt Fire:
Firefighters continue to patrol and monitor the fire perimeter. Occasional smoke, flames and ash whirls from within the burned area may be visible from the highway and nearby communities.
Roosevelt Lake Recreation:
Roosevelt Lake and adjacent recreation sites remains open to the public, with the exception of Bermuda Flat, Cholla Bay, and Bachelor’s Cove which are closed due to concerns for potential flooding after the Bush Fire earlier this summer.
Griffin and Salt fires Smoke Report:
Today and tomorrow, smoke during the afternoon is expected to move toward the east/southeast with light to moderate impacts likely through the day in San Carlos and Peridot. There will be a continued chance for afternoon thunderstorms along with gusty outflow winds. As outflows move through the region, fire activity may increase, resulting in more smoke production. Outflow winds may also push brief pockets of moderate to heavy smoke into Globe-Miami and Roosevelt. Expect hazy conditions with periods of light to moderate smoke impacts for all communities surrounding the fires.
Overnight smoke will move into the drainages and low lying areas adjacent to the fire. Smoke from the Medicine Fire is expected to combine with smoke from the Griffin Fire, causing heavier smoke impacts throughout the night into the early morning hours in San Carlos, Peridot, and possibly Globe-Miami. The heaviest of impacts are expected between 2 am and 9 am with the smoke lifting out by 10 am. https://azdeq.gov/WildfireForecast
Closures and Restrictions: The Tonto National Forest has issued a Public Safety Closure Order for the area impacted by these fires, for more information visit: https://www.fs.usda.gov/alerts/tonto/alerts-notices or https://inciweb.nwcg.gov/incident/closures/7019/
Values: Fire fighter and public safety are the highest priorities on these fires. The fire area includes multiple communities, power lines, mines, range improvements, historical, cultural, ceremonial sites and natural resources, which firefighters are working hard to assess and protect.
More Info: Official information on the fire can be found on these sites.
Salt Operations Update Video August 27 2020
Related Incident:
Publication Type: Announcement
The Salt Fire Operations Update Video for August 27, 2020 with Planning Operations Trainee Caleb Finch is now available on the Salt Gin Griffin Fire Information Facebook page at http://bit.ly/OpsUpdateVideo
Salt Fire Update Wednesday August 26 2020
Related Incident:
Publication Type: News
Location: 11 miles north of Globe, AZ near the junction of Hwy. 188 and SR 288
Cause: Lightning
Size: 20,813 acres
Percent containment: 66%
Vegetation: Sonoran Desert Grass and Brush
Fire Strategy: Full Suppression
Take the time to become familiar with the Ready-Set-Go Evacuation information before you see smoke in your community. More information is available at: https://ein.az.gov/ready-set-go
Highways 188 and 288 are open. Firefighters continue to patrol and monitor the fire perimeter. Occasional smoke, flames and ash whirls from within the burned area may be visible from the highway and nearby communities.
Roosevelt Lake Recreation:
Roosevelt Lake and adjacent recreation sites remains open to the public, with the exception of Bermuda Flat, Cholla Bay, and Bachelor’s Cove which are closed due to concerns for potential flooding after the Bush Fire earlier this summer.
Griffin and Salt Fires Smoke Update:
Weather conditions today are expected to be similar to yesterday, with above normal temperatures and thunderstorms in the late afternoon. Winds will be out of the east in the morning, before becoming more south to southwesterly in the afternoon. An increase in fire activity is expected to produce more smoke, and with the addition of smoke for other fires in the area, smokier conditions are expected throughout the day and overnight.
All communities located around the fires should anticipate hazy conditions with periods of moderate smoke. Overnight smoke will move into the drainages and low-lying areas adjacent to the fire. Smoke from wildfires to the north are expected to combine with smoke from the Griffin and Champion fires. This will cause heavier smoke impacts overnight into the early morning hours in the areas of San Carlos, Peridot, Globe, Wheatfields and Roosevelt. The heaviest of impacts are expected between 2am and 9am with the smoke lifting out by 10 am. https://azdeq.gov/WildfireForecast
Closures and Restrictions: The Tonto National Forest has issued a Public Safety Closure Order for the area impacted by these fires, for more information visit: https://www.fs.usda.gov/alerts/tonto/alerts-notices or https://inciweb.nwcg.gov/incident/closures/7019/
Values: Fire fighter and public safety are the highest priorities on these fires. The fire area includes multiple communities, power lines, mines, range improvements, historical sites, cultural and natural resources, which firefighters are working hard to assess and protect.
More Info: Official information on the fire can be found on these sites.
- Salt Fire Inciweb: https://inciweb.nwcg.gov/incident/7019/
- Griffin Fire Inciweb: https://inciweb.nwcg.gov/incident/7020/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/SaltGinGriffinFire/ and https://www.facebook.com/SCATFORESTRY/
- Direct link to Gila County's Everbridge Emergency Alert Sign-up form: https://member.everbridge.net/index/892807736724090/#/signupncident
- Highway Closures and Restrictions: https://www.az511.gov/
- Ready-Set-Go Evacuation Information Program: https://ein.az.gov/
Smoke Report August 25 2020
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Publication Type: News
The Salt Fire burning on the Tonto National Forest is approximately 5 miles northwest of Miami, AZ. No new growth was reported, and the perimeter is holding at 20,288 acres, with 66% contained.
Resources from the Salt fire are now being pushed to the Griffin fire, as the Salt does not show much heat. A couple of small smoke reports were confirmed yesterday but were coming from well within the perimeter. Crews will continue to mop-up and build containment lines. Smoke may still be visible at times as unburnt fuel pockets consume. The majority of smoke in the area will be coming from the Meddler, Griffin and Champion fires.
Today we are expecting similar weather conditions to what was seen yesterday, with above normal temperatures and thunderstorms in the late afternoon. There will be a slight change in the wind direction as we are forecasting south to southeast winds early today before increasing and becoming outflow driven in the early afternoon. An increase in fire activity is expected to produce more smoke, and with the addition of smoke from other fires in the area, smokier conditions are also expected throughout the day into the overnight.
All communities located around the fires should anticipate hazy conditions with periods of heavy smoke. Overnight smoke will move into the drainages and low lying areas adjacent to the fire. A northerly flow is expected to enhance the diurnal wind pattern, allowing smoke from the wildfires to the north to combine with smoke from the Griffin and Champion fires. This will cause heavier smoke impacts throughout the night into the early morning hours in the communities surrounding the fire. The heaviest of impacts are expected between 2 am and 9 am with the smoke lifting out by 10 am. Air quality is forecasted to be in the Unhealthy AQI category.
If possible, the suggested actions to take are: close windows and use fans or alternative cooling devices, turn off swamp coolers, use filtered HVAC systems, and avoid outdoor activities. A heat advisory has been issued for today; please take necessary precautions to protect your health and the health of those around you. Roadways near the fire may see periods of heavy smoke lowering visibility, use caution when driving.
Salt Fire Update Tuesday August 25 2020
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Publication Type: News
Salt Fire
Location: 11 miles north of Globe, AZ near the junction of Hwy. 188 and SR 288
Cause: Lightning
Size: 20,809 acres
Percent containment: 66%
Vegetation: Sonoran Desert Grass and Brush
Fire Strategy: Full Suppression
With several fires spread across the landscape in close proximity to communities around Globe-Miami, San Carlos and along Highway 60 north of Globe it’s important to become familiar with the Ready-Set-Go Evacuation Information Program: http://www.readygila.com/
Heavy smoke settled into the San Carlos, Globe and Roosevelt Lake areas overnight. It is extremely hard to predict where outflow winds will push heavy concentrations of smoke. Generally it will settle into lower canyons and valleys overnight and lift out of the area during the day. Daily smoke forecasts for these fires can be found at https://azdeq.gov/WildfireForecast
Overview
· The San Carlos communities of Upper Gilson and Skill Center have been put on “Set” Status.
· Along Hwy. 60 north of Globe Winters Ranch and McMillianville are on “Set” Status.
· The Griffin Fire continues to move in the direction of Upper Sevenmile.
· Firefighters continue to suppress the Salt, Griffin and Champion Fires. Total resources on the ground for the fires are 553 personnel.
· Fire activity and movement will continue to be driven by dry fuels, terrain, slope and potential of winds from thunderstorms through the area. We are expecting higher temperatures and lower humidity over the fire area for the next several days. The chance of afternoon thunderstorm buildup and outflow winds will remain a concern for public and firefighter safety.
· Highway 60 has reopened for travel in both directions with a pilot car through the fire area. Allow extra time, and be prepared for travel delays.
· Highways 188 and 288 are open.
· Road 1300, near Highway Tanks, Road 900, and Indian Route 6, Old San Carlos Highway, are closed on the San Carlos Apache Reservation. Please be careful while driving in the fire area as firefighters are working along roadways and travelling through communities to reach the fires.
UPDATE
Communities Affected:
The following areas along Highway 60 north of Globe are in “Set” status: Winters Ranch and McMillianville. For emergency alert and Red Cross evacuation information, visit http://www.readygila.com/.
Salt Fire:
Firefighters continue to patrol and monitor the fire perimeter. Occasional smoke, flames and ash whirls from within the burned area may be visible from the highway and nearby communities.
Roosevelt Lake Recreation:
Roosevelt Lake and adjacent recreation sites remains open to the public, with the exception of Bermuda Flat, Cholla Bay, and Bachelor’s Cove which are closed due to concerns for potential flooding after the Bush Fire earlier this summer.
Griffin and Salt Fires Smoke Report:
Weather conditions today are expected to be similar to yesterday, with above normal temperatures and thunderstorms in the late afternoon. Winds will be out of the south to southeast early in the day before increasing and becoming thunderstorm driven in the early afternoon. An increase in fire activity is expected to produce more smoke, and with the addition of smoke for other fires in the area, smokier conditions are expected throughout the day and overnight.
All communities located around the fires should anticipate hazy conditions with periods of heavy smoke. Overnight smoke will move into the drainages and low-lying areas adjacent to the fire. A northerly flow is expected to enhance the diurnal wind pattern, allowing smoke from the wildfires to the north to combine with smoke from the Griffin and Champion fires. This will cause heavier smoke impacts overnight into the early morning hours in the areas of San Carlos, Peridot, Globe, Wheatfields and Roosevelt. The heaviest of impacts are expected between 2am and 9am with the smoke lifting out by 10 am. Air quality is forecasted to be in the Unhealthy category. https://azdeq.gov/WildfireForecast?fire=griffinfire
Closures and Restrictions: The Tonto National Forest has issued a Public Safety Closure Order for the area impacted by these fires, for more information visit: https://www.fs.usda.gov/alerts/tonto/alerts-notices or https://inciweb.nwcg.gov/incident/closures/7019/
Values: Fire fighter and public safety are the highest priorities on these fires. The fire area includes multiple communities, power lines, mines, range improvements, historical sites and natural resources, which firefighters are working hard to assess and protect.
More Info: Official information on the fire can be found on these sites.
· Salt Fire Inciweb: https://inciweb.nwcg.gov/incident/7019/
· Griffin Fire Inciweb: https://inciweb.nwcg.gov/incident/7020/
· Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/SaltGinGriffinFire/ and https://www.facebook.com/SCATFORESTRY/
· Direct link to Gila County's Everbridge Emergency Alert Sign-up form: https://member.everbridge.net/index/892807736724090/#/signupncident
· Highway Closures and Restrictions: https://www.az511.gov/
· Ready-Set-Go Evacuation Information Program: https://ein.az.gov/Salt and Griffin Fires Daily Update Monday August 24 2020
Related Incident:
Publication Type: News
Griffin Fire Continues to Progress into the Sevenmile Drainage
Ko’ Ba Nagoni i’
Location: 11 miles north of Globe, AZ near the junction of Hwy. 188 and SR 288
Cause: Lightning
Size: 20,809 acres
Percent containment: 57%
Vegetation: Sonoran Desert Grass and Brush
Griffin Fire
Location: 5 miles northeast of Globe, AZ in the Apache mountains west of Hwy. 60
Cause: Lightning
Fire Strategy: Full Suppression
Yesterday, ground crews assisted by air tankers and helicopters, responded to the lightning caused Champion Fire 1.5 miles south of the Griffin Fire in Champion Creek, east of Highway 60. Fire managers expect the Griffin Fire to merge with the Champion Fire later today. Expect additional fire equipment and personnel to be driving through San Carlos and the Sevenmile communities as they fight these fires.
Overview
Firefighters continue to suppress the Salt and Griffin Fires. Total resources on the ground for both fires are 431 personnel. Thunderstorms passed over parts of both fires Sunday evening, bringing varying amounts of rain. Fire activity and movement will continue to be driven by dry fuels, terrain, slope and potential of winds from thunderstorms through the area. We are expecting higher temperatures and lower humidity over the fire area for the next several days. The chance of afternoon thunderstorm buildup and outflow winds will remain a concern for firefighter safety. Highway 60 has reopened for travel in both directions with a pilot car through the fire area. Expect delays. Highways 188 and 288 have also reopened. New road closures are being implemented on the San Carlos Apache Reservation. Road 1300 (near Highway Tank) and road 900 are closed to all traffic at this time. Please be careful while driving in the fire area as firefighters are working along roadways.
UPDATE
Salt Fire:
Firefighters continue to patrol and monitor firelines on the north and east side of the fire. Recent rains decreased fire activity yesterday on the Southwest flank of the fire which allowed firefighters to construct fireline directly on the fire’s edge near Barnes Peak. Today crews will continue to build direct line where possible and scout areas for contingency firelines to secure the southwest corner of the fire and prevent further spread to the south. Occasional smoke, flames and ash whirls from within the burned area may be visible from the highway and nearby communities.
Communities Affected:
The communities threatened by the Salt Fire were returned to “Ready” Evacuation Status this morning. They include: Wheatfields, Roosevelt Estates, Roosevelt Resort, Rockhouse, Spring Creek, Hay Hook, and Quail Run. For emergency alert and Red Cross evacuation information, visit http://www.readygila.com/.
Roosevelt Lake Recreation:
Roosevelt Lake and adjacent recreation sites remains open to the public, with the exception of Bermuda Flat, Cholla Bay, and Bachelor’s Cove which are closed due to concerns for potential flooding after the Bush Fire earlier this summer.
Griffin and Salt fires Smoke Report:
Overnight smoke will move into the drainages and low lying areas adjacent to the fire. A northeasterly flow is expected to enhance the diurnal wind pattern, allowing smoke from a wildfire located north of the Griffin to combine with the Griffin and Salt fires' smoke. This could cause heavier smoke impacts throughout the night into the early morning hours in the areas of San Carlos,Wheatfield and Roosevelt. The heaviest of impacts are expected between 4am and 9am with the smoke lifting out by 10 am https://azdeq.gov/WildfireForecast?fire=griffinfire
Closures and Restrictions: The Tonto National Forest has issued a Public Safety Closure Order for the area impacted by these fires, for more information visit: https://www.fs.usda.gov/alerts/tonto/alerts-notices or https://inciweb.nwcg.gov/incident/closures/7019/
Values: Fire fighter and public safety are the highest priorities on these fires. The fire area includes multiple communities, power lines, mines, range improvements, historical sites and natural resources, which firefighters are working hard to assess and protect.
More Info: Official information on the fire can be found on these sites.
Salt Fire Inciweb: https://inciweb.nwcg.gov/incident/7019/
Griffin Fire Inciweb: https://inciweb.nwcg.gov/incident/7020/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/SaltGinGriffinFire/ and https://www.facebook.com/SCATFORESTRY/
Direct link to Gila County's Everbridge Emergency Alert Sign-up form: https://member.everbridge.net/index/892807736724090/#/signupncident
Highway Closures and Restrictions: https://www.az511.gov/
Salt and Griffin Fire Update Sunday August 23 2020
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Publication Type: News
Salt Fire Evacuation Area Lifted: Community Status: Returned To “Set” Mode
Gila County Sheriff’s Office and Gila County Emergency Management have determined that the following areas are safe for residents to return home. Areas on both sides of State Route 188 from Bixby Road to the 188/288 Junction, including all of Wheatfield and all areas of Hicks Road. Residents of these areas will remain in “SET” status on the “Ready, Set, Go model”
Salt Fire
Location: 11 miles north of Globe, AZ near the junction of Hwy. 188 and SR 288
Cause: Lightning
Size: 20,288 acres
Percent containment: 20%
Vegetation: Sonoran Desert Grass and Brush
Fire Strategy: Full Suppression
Gin and Griffin Fires Merge now called the Griffin Fire
Location: 5 miles northeast of Globe, AZ in the Apache mountains west of Hwy. 60
Size: 27,503
Percent containment: 0%
Vegetation: Grass and Brush
Fire Strategy: Full Suppression
OVERVIEW
Due to fire activity last night the Gin and Griffin fires have merged and will now be called the Griffin Fire.
Firefighters continue to suppress the Salt and Griffin Fires. Total resources on the ground for both fires are 350 personnel.
A thunderstorm passed over the fires Saturday evening, bringing varying amounts of rain to both fires.
ire activity and movement will continue to be driven by dry fuels, terrain, slope and potential of winds from thunderstorms through the area. We are expecting higher temperatures and lower humidity over the fire area for the next several days. The chance of afternoon thunderstorm buildup and outflow winds will remain a concern for firefighter safety.
Highway 60 has reopened for travel in both directions with a pilot car through the fire area. Expect delays.
New road closures are being implemented on the San Carlos Apache Reservation. Roads 1300 and 900 are closed to all traffic at this time. Please be careful while driving in the fire area as firefighters are working along roadways.
UPDATE
Salt Fire:
Earlier in the burning period yesterday, fire activity picked up from smoldering and creeping to active movement on the southwest flank of the Salt Fire near Barnes Peak. The fire was burning in grass and brush causing the fire to move west toward Pinto Creek and south of the FS 225 road. Expect continued burning of interior pockets of fuel on the eastern flank. Smoke may continue to be visible.
Communities Affected:
The following communities are on "Set" Evacuation Status: Wheatfields, Roosevelt Estates, Roosevelt Resort, Rockhouse, Spring Creek, Hay Hook, and Quail Run. For emergency alert and Red Cross evacuation information, visit http://www.readygila.com/.
Closures and Restrictions: ADOT has reopened Hwy. 188 and SR 288. Drivers will be escorted via pilot car though the Salt Fire Burned Area and should expect delays from E Del Rio Ln (MM216) to Sr 188 Old Alignment (MM232).
Roosevelt Lake Recreation:
Roosevelt Lake and adjacent recreation sites remains open to the public, with the exception of Bermuda Flat, Cholla Bay, and Bachelors Cove which are closed due to concerns for potential flooding after the Bush Fire earlier this summer.
Smoke Report:
Smoke will lift and disperse to the east and southeast early. Chances of thunderstorms increases throughout the day. Moderate smoke impacts are expected to the communities of Miami, Claypool, and Globe. The heaviest impacts are expected over the San Carlos and Peridot communities as smoke from both fires may combine in that area.
https://azdeq.gov/WildfireForecast?fire=saltfire
Griffin Fire (merged with Gin Fire):
The Griffin Fire continues to move east and north on the San Carlos Apache Reservation. The fire is burning in two primary locations in two different types of vegetation. The southern flank of the fire exhibited wind driven runs to the east and north from Sevenmile wash to Sevenmile Mountains and it will likely continue towards Brushy Basin. Fire in this area was pushed upslope to the northeast by westerly winds and burned primarily through short grasses. The northern perimeter of the Griffin Fire is over 1000’ higher in elevation and burning through chaparral and brush with a grass understory. This northern edge is influenced more by the complex topography of Sycamore/Grapevine/Stormy Canyons and is driven by fuels and topography causing flanking and runs. Firefighters continue to protect the Griffin and Tucker Ranches and identify opportunities to keep fire south of FR 303 (Seven Mile Wash Rd.). The team is also working with fire managers from the San Carlos Apache Tribe to identify values at risk and potential holding features on the portion of the Griffin Fire burning on the San Carlos Apache Nation.
Griffin Fire Smoke Report:
Smoke will lift and disperse to the east and southeast early. Chances of thunderstorms increases throughout the day. Moderate smoke impacts are expected to the communities of Miami, Claypool, and Globe. The heaviest impacts are expected over the San Carlos and Peridot communities as smoke from both fires may combine in that area. https://azdeq.gov/WildfireForecast?fire=griffinfire
Closures and Restrictions: Highway 60 has reopened for travel in both directions with a pilot car through the fire area. Expect delays.
Values: Fire fighter and public safety are the highest priorities on these fires. The fire area includes multiple communities, power lines, mines, range improvements, historical sites and natural resources, which firefighters are working hard to assess and protect.
The Tonto National Forest has issued a Public Safety Closure Order for the area impacted by these fires, for more information visit: https://www.fs.usda.gov/alerts/tonto/alerts-notices or https://inciweb.nwcg.gov/incident/closures/7019/
More Info: Official information on the fire can be found on these sites.
· Salt Fire Inciweb: https://inciweb.nwcg.gov/incident/7019/
· Griffin Fire Inciweb: https://inciweb.nwcg.gov/incident/7020/
· Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/SaltGinGriffinFire/ and https://www.facebook.com/SCATFORESTRY/
· Direct link to Gila County's Everbridge Emergency Alert Sign-up form: https://member.everbridge.net/index/892807736724090/#/signupncident
· Highway Closures and Restrictions: https://www.az511.gov/