SUBJECT: | Areas East and West of Sycamore Canyon Downgraded from “GO” to “SET” |
For Immediate Release
Contact: Commander Gerrit Boeck
Phone: 928-226-5025Coconino County, AZ – The Coconino County Sheriff’s Office is pleased to announce the areas to the east and to the west of Sycamore Canyon will be downgraded from “GO” (evacuation) to “SET” status. This includes the National Forest areas east of Whitehorse Lake and JD Dam, Pine Flat, Woody Mountain Road south of Forest Road 538, “End of the World,” and the National Forest in that area. It is important to note that the areas within the Kaibab and Coconino National Forest are currently closed to public access due to Stage 3 fire restrictions, so those areas will remain closed. The downgrade from “GO” to “SET” is mainly applicable for the private properties that lie within the National Forest in these areas.
The decision to downgrade evacuation status was made in conjunction with the Type 1 Incident Management Team managing the Rafael Fire. Firefighters have conducted successful burnout operations and other mitigation strategies to achieve containment on a large portion of the fire that adjoins these areas. The Incident Management Team has determined this area is no longer currently in imminent danger from the Rafael Fire and recommended we downgrade to the “SET” status.
As of today, the size of the Rafael Fire is estimated at 78,708 acres and at 59% containment. The fire was discovered on June 18, 2021. On June 20th the fire grew approximately 18,000 acres, which prompted evacuations of dispersed camping areas on the Kaibab National Forest in Coconino County. Fire crews continue to make progress on fully containing the Rafael Fire.
Residents in Coconino County are encouraged to sign up for Emergency Notifications at coconino.az.gov/ready. The Coconino County Sheriff’s Office uses this emergency notification system to announce “READY, SET, GO” evacuation announcements as well as other emergency situations and notifications.
“READY” status means- you are aware of and monitoring fire activity in your area. You should have basic plans in place for yourselves, important documents, medications, pets and livestock in the event that a “GO” message is received. Residents in Northern Arizona are encouraged to always be in READY status.
“SET” status means- knowing there is significant danger in your area - residents should consider voluntarily relocating to a shelter or with family/friends outside the affected area. Have ready your emergency “go kit.” Keep in mind unique needs for your family or special equipment for pets and livestock. Stay aware of the latest news and information from public safety and public health officials.
“GO” status means- Leave Immediately!
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