Coconino and Kaibab forests in northern Arizona lift fire restrictions

PHOENIX — Having received significant precipitation from recent storms, the Coconino and Kaibab forests in northern Arizona announced Tuesday that fire restrictions have been lifted.

“Enough rain has fallen across the forest to increase live fuel moisture levels and decrease fire danger,” the Kaibab National Forest said in a press release.

“The forecast shows these improved conditions continuing. The increased moisture and cooler temperatures have reduced the risk of severe fire behavior.”

Area closures for Walnut Canyon and Pumphouse Wash in the Coconino National Forest, as well as the area closure on Bill Williams Mountain in the Kaibab National Forest, were also lifted.

The Coconino National Forest said in a press release that fire-related area closures remain in place around the perimeters of the Pipeline and Haywire fires, which together have burned more than 30,000 acres but are each nearly contained.

A closure is also still in effect in the Fossil Creek area due to last year’s Backbone Fire, which burned just over 40,000 acres.

The Apache-Sitgreaves and Coronado national forests lifted their Stage 2 fire restrictions last week, while restrictions remain in place for the Prescott and Tonto national forests.

People were asked to remain vigilant when visiting the forests, regardless of restriction levels, and remember that fireworks are never allowed on National Forest lands.

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