JACOB LAKE, AZ — Crews are making containment progress on the White Sage Fire, which is burning in northern Arizona near the destructive Dragon Bravo Fire.
The White Sage Fire is burning near Jacob Lake and Fredonia, near U.S. Highway 89A. It is believed to have been caused by lightning on July 9.
It is estimated to be more than 58,980 acres with 81% containment, according to the latest data from the National Interagency Fire Center.
US Highway 89A has been reopened to the public as of July 25. Highway 67 toward the Grand Canyon remains closed, fire officials say.
The Coconino County Sheriff's Office issued a "GO" evacuation order in the following areas:
- North Rim Area
The Coconino County Sheriff’s Office announced that the area around Jacob Lake had been placed back into “READY” evacuation status on Wednesday.
The Dragon Bravo Fire, which started on July 4, is burning south of the White Sage Fire area. It has been reported that dozens of structures have been lost in the fire, including NPS administrative buildings and visitor facilities. No injuries or deaths have been reported, and all staff and residents were successfully evacuated prior to the fire’s escalation.
The Dragon Bravo Fire has burned more than 50,000 acres and is at an estimated 13% containment.
Grand Canyon National Park officials announced that Stage 2 fire restrictions would be put into place for the South Rim and all other areas of the park, effective immediately.
As part of those restrictions, all wood-burning and charcoal fires, including campfires and charcoal barbecues, are prohibited. The restrictions will be in place until "significant precipitation falls and fire danger levels subside."
Governor Hobbs visited the Dragon Bravo Fire on July 19, meeting with officials and gaining a firsthand look at the damage ahead of talks in D.C.
If you're looking for a way to help the community impacted by the fires, the Grand Canyon Conservancy is accepting donations.
