The lightning-caused Rafael Fire has so far burned more than 37 square miles with no containment reported, according to the most recent data from Coconino National Forest officials and InciWeb.
Multiple Flagstaff area communities remain in “SET” status for potential evacuation, including Kachina Village, University Heights, Mountain Dell, Pine Del, Forest Highland, Woody Mountain Road south of I-40, Garland Prairie and Pine Aire Estates. Several ranches west of Sedona remain on mandated evacuation, according to the Yavapai County Sheriff’s Office.
A Type I Incident Management Team will take over operations of the Rafael Fire beginning Thursday, providing more resources and stringent containment efforts. County officials say two Blackhawk helicopters are on standby in Phoenix for additional aid. Coconino County Supervisor Patrice Horstman says county officials communicated with Senator Mark Kelly Tuesday to request further aid in battling the fire.
Both Yavapai and Coconino Counties allow residents to sign up for emergency notifications via phone and text message; Coconino County allows residents to receive alerts in languages including Spanish.