Pocket Fire Near Sedona Explodes to 5,500 Acres, Forces New Evacuations

SEDONA, Ariz. — The Pocket Fire burning seven miles north of Sedona exploded by 3,200 acres in a single day under Red Flag conditions, forcing authorities to place Kachina Village and Forest Highlands in SET evacuation status as of June 28.

Queen Creek, located in the southeast Phoenix metro area spanning Maricopa and Pinal counties, has a population of approximately 70,000 and is one of the fastest-growing communities in Arizona.

The fire, which started June 19 in the Coconino National Forest, has now consumed 5,547 acres with zero percent containment. More than 870 personnel are assigned to the blaze, and 15 engines along with additional resources are bolstering protection for threatened communities.

On Saturday, the fire backed into Bear Sign Canyon before aligning with southwest winds gusting up to 50 mph. Multiple spot fires north of Woody Mountain Road consolidated into a rapid 3,200-acre run, prompting the new evacuation orders. Structure protection groups are building defensible space around homes in the affected areas.

Portions of State Route 89A and Woody Mountain Road remain closed, and a Temporary Flight Restriction is in effect over the fire zone. A public meeting is scheduled for Monday evening at Sedona Red Rock Middle and High School, where the Incident Management Team and local authorities will address residents.

The National Weather Service has issued a Red Flag Warning for the area, with single-digit humidity during the day and no measurable precipitation in the forecast. Air quality has fluctuated from “Unhealthy” to “Good” hour to hour, and officials are urging residents to remain vigilant.

A portion of Coconino National Forest remains closed. The cause of the fire is still under investigation. Coconino County emergency officials are directing residents to coconino.az.gov/pocketfire for evacuation maps and updates.

Source: https://ein.az.gov/kachina-village-forest-highlands-set-status-red-flag-winds-spur-growth-pocket-fire