Cross Fire Continues to Grow Within Planned Management Area
Incident: Cross Wildfire
Released: 7/17/2009
WILLIAMS, Ariz. - Operations continue as planned on the Cross Fire, 18 miles southeast of Williams. The 5,070-acre fire is moving to the west and southwest within the defined management area that officials set for the incident.
The lightning-caused fire is being managed to achieve several objectives including providing for firefighter and public safety, reducing hazardous fuel accumulation, managing smoke production and returning fire to a fire-dependent ecosystem. To meet these objectives, management actions have been taken to prevent rapid fire spread toward the northern boundary, enhance wildlife habitat, and protect cultural resources.
There are 159 personnel assigned to the fire. Resources include the Prescott and Flagstaff hotshots, the Arizona State Forestry Fire Crew, the Saguaro and Grass Lake Wildland Fire Modules in addition to several engines from the Coconino National Forest and the Kaibab National Forest helitack crew, fuels crew, dozer, helicopter and engines.
On Thursday, work was completed to secure the north and eastern boundary of the management area. These management actions were implemented to maintain lower intensity fire progression to the west and decrease the likelihood of a rapid running head fire toward the northern boundary. Friday, fire crews will patrol and monitor containment lines as well as scout ahead of the fire for work that needs to be done in advance of fire spread.
While smoke from the Cross Fire can be widespread at times, it is also generally short-term in nature. As management of the incident continues, there may be temporary impacts in the evening and early morning hours in Williams, Bellemont, Parks, Sedona and Prescott. Smoke is usually lifting well by mid-morning. To see real time data on air quality, please click on: http://www.phoenixvis.net/PPMmain.aspx
There are no closures associated with the Cross Fire. However, there may be temporary travel delays along Forest Road 147. Visitors should use caution when traveling in the area and should watch for equipment and personnel.
A high pressure system will continue across Northern Arizona through the weekend bringing high temperatures and just enough moisture for a chance of isolated afternoon rain showers. Fire activity will remain at a steady pace under these conditions.
For additional information on the Cross Fire, please contact Punky Moore, Fire Information Officer, (928-635-5653). -USFS-
