Intense Winds Propel Pocket Fire Toward Northern Communities, Triggering Set Status for Evacuations
Strong winds on Saturday have significantly expanded the Pocket Fire’s reach, nearly doubling its size. The Southwest Area Incident Management Team reported that the wildfire surged 3,200 acres northward, prompting authorities to place Kachina Village and Forest Highlands on Set status, signaling potential evacuations.
As of Sunday morning, the Coconino National Forest officials confirmed that the fire had spread to 5,547 acres with no containment in sight.
On Saturday evening, the Coconino County Sheriff’s Office issued a Set status for all residents in Kachina Village and Forest Highlands, preparing them for possible evacuation. Oak Creek Canyon remains on Set status as well.
To bolster defense efforts, 15 additional engine crews are set to aid in protecting structures and enhancing defensible spaces south of Kachina and Forest Highlands.
Firefighters are executing firing operations along Forest Road 535 and other routes to establish a protective barrier between the wildfire and nearby communities.
Fire managers observed that on Saturday, the blaze moved into Bear Sign Canyon, aligning again with northeastern winds. A map from the incident command team shows the wind pushing the Pocket Fire past its initial containment line, advancing toward Buzzard Ridge and Howard Pocket, west of Oak Creek Canyon.
Incident command reported multiple spot fires north of Woody Mountain Road (Forest Road 231), which were promptly addressed by firefighters on standby. Despite efforts, these spot fires merged into a larger blaze.
A red flag warning is in effect Sunday, with weather conditions mirroring those of Saturday. Sustained winds of 35 mph and gusts up to 40–50 mph are anticipated. Officials reported inadequate humidity recovery on Saturday night, predicting continued single-digit humidity levels and no expected precipitation. Sunday marks the final day of a three-day red flag warning phase for this region.
Communities such as Flagstaff will continue to experience smoke impacts from the Pocket Fire.
Residents can view the evacuation map on the Coconino County Emergency Management website and register for emergency alerts.
A public meeting is scheduled at Sedona Red Rock Middle and High School, 995 Upper Red Rock Loop Road, on Monday, June 29, at 7 p.m. Fire managers and team members will provide updates and address questions. The meeting will also be streamed on the Coconino National Forest’s Facebook page.
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