Fire Season 2026

The National Interagency Fire Center raised the country’s wildfire preparedness level to the highest point. Even though Arizona is in the midst of monsoon season, a former Forest Service official says the state isn't out of the woods yet.

Scientists with the Burned Area Emergency Response Team say the 27,000-acre Pocket Fire has increased the risk of flash flooding but mostly burned at a low intensity.

After finishing an assessment of the 27,000-acre Pocket Fire, the Burned Area Emergency Response team says 70% burned at either low or very low severity.

Monsoon rains have created new hazards for areas and communities that were threatened by the Pocket Fire.

Arizona hasn’t had the extreme wildfire season many had feared following one of the driest winters on record. But nationally, a severe fire season is raising questions about federal readiness.

The stretch of State Route 89A between Sedona and Interstate 17 near Flagstaff reopened Monday as crews begin cleanup from the Pocket Fire.

Crews battling the Pocket Fire north of Sedona had contained 69% of the blaze as of Thursday morning. Incident managers say firefighters have made considerable progress containing the wildfire but there’s still work to be done.

In recent days a flight restriction for the Pocket Fire has forced officials to cancel several flights at the Flagstaff Pulliam Airport.

The Pocket Fire has grown to more than 20,000 acres and is 21% contained. Smoke continues heavily impact Flagstaff but fire officials say crews continue to make solid progress.

Kachina Village, Forest Highlands and Pine Del have been downgraded from a “Set” pre-evacuation notice to “Ready” status. The shift comes as the Pocket Fire reaches 20% containment.