Arizona Fires

Daily Wildfire Report for Arizona - July 31, 2026

Overview

Arizona is experiencing an elevated fire risk due to extreme heat, with recent temperatures reaching up to 116°F in several counties, combined with gusty winds and dry vegetation blanketing the landscape. This combination of factors has led to potentially risky situations for wildfires across the state.
The current National Preparedness Level for the region remains elevated as resources are committed to managing ongoing summer incidents.

Current Situation

Fire Activity: There are currently multiple active fires in Arizona and significant wildland fire activity is occurring in multiple geographic areas, requiring support to manage incident objectives. The potential for new significant wildfires to start in the next several days remains a concern for this time of year. Firefighters are working to contain these fires while also preparing for potential new starts.

Key Fires:
Pocket Fire: Located 7 miles north of Sedona in Yavapai and Coconino Counties, this is currently the largest tracked fire in the state at 27,393 acres and is 95% contained. The fire is fueled by timber and heavy brush. Containment has been established along the northern edge and portions near State Route 89A. Crews are focused on suppression repair work, completing chipping operations, and monitoring inaccessible terrain in the West Fork of Oak Creek Canyon.

Rock Canyon Fire: A lightning-caused fire burning in the Kaibab National Forest, located 9 miles south of U.S. Route 89 near the Arizona-Utah border. It has burned 4,823 acres. Firefighters continue to manage the incident in the surrounding timber and brush to secure the perimeter.

Sycamore Fire: Burning in the Tonto National Forest, approximately 2.1 miles west of Steer Mountain. This lightning-caused fire has prompted Level 2 "Set" evacuations for nearby areas, prioritizing the protection of local residents and values at risk.

Prescribed Burns and Land Management: The Tonto National Forest planned prescribed fire pile burns on the Tonto Basin Ranger District on July 28, 2026, including the Tonto Basin Transfer Station and 83 Green Waste Disposal areas. These operations are conducted to manage fuel loads and reduce wildfire risk as weather and vegetation conditions allow.
Air Quality: Smoke from active wildfires like the Pocket Fire, as well as recent prescribed burns, may impact areas such as Flagstaff, Sedona, and Oak Creek Canyon. Residents in these areas should be aware and use caution.

Weather and Wind Warnings

Current Weather: Extreme heat has dominated the region, with Extreme Heat Warnings recently in effect for La Paz, Maricopa, and Yuma Counties through July 29.
Forecasted Weather: Critical fire weather remains a concern due to a dangerous combination of strong southwest winds, extremely low humidity (near 10-15%), and dry vegetation. A strong drying trend is expected, with warmer and drier conditions anticipated heading into the weekend, which may increase fire behavior. Winds are expected to pick up, potentially fanning flames and increasing the risk of rapid fire spread.

Recommendations

Public Awareness: Residents are advised to be mindful of fire traffic and potential smoke impacts. It is crucial to have an emergency plan in place and to clear dead brush from properties to reduce the risk of catastrophic fires.
Resource Allocation: Firefighters are working under challenging conditions with a less-than-ideal workforce due to the time of year. Agencies are training for increased fire risk and conducting fuel mitigation projects to clear high-risk areas.

Resources

For up-to-date emergency information, residents can visit:
National Interagency Fire Center (NIFC): www.nifc.gov/fire-information/nfn
Arizona Emergency Information Network: wildlandfire.az.gov

Stay informed and prepared by monitoring these resources regularly.