Arizona Fires

Daily Wildfire Report for Arizona - July 22, 2026

Overview

Arizona is currently experiencing a transition in fire risk due to the arrival of active monsoon moisture across the state, which has brought widespread showers and cooler temperatures to several regions. While the increase in humidity and rainfall has helped mitigate the immediate wildfire threat and allowed for the lifting of numerous fire restrictions, extreme heat persists in lower desert areas, maintaining localized fire risks.
The current National Preparedness Level is 5, indicating that national firefighting resources are heavily committed across the country.

Current Situation

Fire Activity: Fire activity in Arizona has moderated significantly over the last 72 hours thanks to the onset of the monsoon season. The increased moisture has allowed firefighters to gain the upper hand on existing incidents, and several national forests and state agencies have begun lifting fire restrictions. However, officials warn that the combination of heavy monsoon rains and recent wildfire burn scars has elevated the risk of flash flooding in some areas.

Key Fires:

• Pocket Fire: Located approximately 7 miles north of Sedona in the Coconino National Forest, this fire is currently the largest in the state, mapped at 27,393 acres and is 95% contained. The fire has been fueled primarily by timber and brush. With offensive firefighting and improved weather conditions, crews have successfully secured the majority of the perimeter and are currently focusing on suppression repair and monitoring the area.
• Shake Fire: Located near the community of Kearny, this fire burned over 100 acres of dry vegetation and grass, fueled by hot temperatures and high winds. It previously prompted evacuations that have since been lifted. As of July 21, FEMA approved over $195,000 in post-disaster funding to cover eligible firefighting costs for the state's rapid response.

Prescribed Burns and Land Management: Due to increased monsoon moisture and decreased fire activity, the Arizona Department of Forestry and Fire Management (DFFM) officially rescinded fire restrictions on State Trust lands in Coconino, Gila, La Paz, Mohave, Maricopa, Pinal, Yavapai, and Yuma Counties as of July 20. Additionally, the Kaibab, Prescott, Tonto, and Apache-Sitgreaves National Forests have lifted their fire restrictions. The Grand Canyon National Park's South Rim has downgraded to Stage 1 fire restrictions, and the city of Flagstaff has lowered restrictions to allow the use of fire pits.

Weather and Wind Warnings

Current Weather: Active monsoon conditions are present, with widespread showers and thunderstorms focused over the Arizona high terrain. This increase in moisture is aiding firefighting efforts and increasing fuel moisture levels. However, extreme heat warnings remain in effect for lower desert regions, including La Paz and Yuma Counties, with daytime highs expected to reach up to 116°F.
Forecasted Weather: Heavy rainfall and flash flooding are possible across much of Arizona as monsoon storms continue to develop. Officials are closely monitoring recent burn scars for potential debris flows and flash flooding. While the moisture is beneficial, sudden gusts of wind from thunderstorms can still blow sparks into dry vegetation outside of cleared areas, causing unexpected and uncontrolled fires.

Recommendations

Public Awareness: While fire restrictions are being lifted, residents and visitors are reminded that fire season is not over. Campfires should be kept small and must be completely extinguished—cold to the touch—before leaving them unattended. Furthermore, residents near recent wildfire burn scars should remain vigilant and have an emergency plan in place due to the elevated risk of flash flooding from monsoon rains.
Resource Allocation: Firefighters are taking advantage of the favorable weather to conduct suppression repair, stabilize soils to protect against erosion, and monitor existing fire perimeters.

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.