A Dry Winter Sparks Early Fire Restrictions in Arizona’s Forests
Amidst an unusually dry winter, authorities in the Apache-Sitgreaves National Forests have initiated stage 1 fire restrictions as of Friday at 3 p.m. This decision comes in response to the heightened risk of wildfires in the White Mountains, where precipitation and snowpack are at unprecedented lows.
Johnny Whatley, the fire management officer for Apache-Sitgreaves, highlighted the severity of the situation, stating, “We have experienced an exceptionally dry winter here in the White Mountains. Both precipitation and snowpack are at record lows, and this has put our Forests in conditions where wildfires can both start and spread much easier than normally this time of year.”
A coalition comprising state, federal, county, city, and tribal entities determined the need for these restrictions to safeguard the public. This group will maintain ongoing communication to adjust fire bans as fire danger evolves during spring and summer.
Under the newly implemented stage 1 restrictions, the use of campfires, charcoal, and wood stoves is confined to developed forest recreation sites. Additionally, smoking is restricted to inside vehicles or buildings. Fireworks remain prohibited on national forests and state lands at all times.
In conjunction with these measures, Navajo and Apache counties have also enforced similar restrictions due to the historically dry winter conditions, exacerbating wildfire risks across the region.
Flagstaff, for instance, has received less than 15% of its typical snowfall this winter. According to the National Weather Service, by the end of the meteorological winter on February 28, the area had recorded only 8.5 inches of snow since December 1st, contrasting sharply with the average of nearly 58.7 inches.
This winter ranks among the driest on record for northern Arizona, prompting concerns about a potentially severe and early wildfire season.
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