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Wildfire north of Flagstaff; closures on 89.

The Tunnel Fire north of Flagstaff has closed a stretch of 89 in both directions, and closed Wupatki and Sunset Crater National Monuments as well. If planning to enter South Rim via 89 heading north from Flagstaff to Cameron and then west on 64 to the east park entrance, you'll need to use an alternate route. Same if heading north on 89 to Page, or heading south from Page/Lees Ferry on 89 to Flagstaff and onwards to Sedona (see my note below). This fire is reported to be fast moving and zero % contained.

https://az511.gov

The routes from Flagstaff or Williams to the South Entrance via 180 and/or 64 are open.

Posted by
14738 posts

Oh my word. Very early for this. Thanks for the notice.

Posted by
33838 posts

It is a bit early in the year for big fires isn't it?

Posted by
3076 posts

Yes, it is a tad early but we're in a drought. Didn't get much rain in the desert or snow accumulation in the mountains this winter. We need the snow pack to fill the lakes and reservoirs. Without rain, the forests are dry. Previous years' fires make fire potential worse because when the vegetation is burned there is nothing to hold water so it runs off.

Kathy, are you in Arizona?

Posted by
16541 posts

Nope, I'm in Minnesota; Twin Cities suburb, Ms. Woofie.
Just a fan of our grandest canyon and a lot of other glorious parks in that part of the country so I look in on them quite often. Yep, this fire sounds like a bad one, and I'm sure you've got better tabs on it from where you are than I do! :O(

Posted by
14738 posts

Oh my, that is sad news. Glad they were able to save the cultural items.

Bravo to the NPS for not charging thru traffic detouring thru the Park.

Thanks for the update.