Wildfire Near Navajo Nation’s Capital Continues to Spread
As of Monday morning, a significant wildfire is advancing just eight miles from Window Rock, the capital of the Navajo Nation. Known as the Oak Ridge Fire, this blaze has rapidly expanded to encompass nearly 6,300 acres, with containment still at 0%.
Originating near the St. Michaels community on Saturday, the fire has prompted authorities to issue “Go” evacuation orders. These orders affect residents in Hunter’s Point and Oak Springs, specifically those west of mile marker 12 on Navajo Route 12, north of the El Paso Gas Transfer Station, as well as along roads 603, 604, 605, and the Navajo Telecommunications Road. Meanwhile, Oak Springs residents north of the El Paso Station have been placed under a “Set” pre-evacuation status.
For a detailed evacuation status, consult the map here.
A public meeting regarding the fire’s developments will be conducted at 6 p.m. on Monday at the Fighting Scouts Field House in Window Rock. This session will also be available via a live stream on the BIA Wildland Fire Management’s Facebook page.
The Southwest Area Complex Incident Management has assumed responsibility for managing the Oak Ridge Fire response, deploying 420 personnel to tackle the growing blaze. Officials have expressed concern about the threat the fire poses to the St. Michaels community, the Route 12 corridor, and critical pipeline infrastructure. Furthermore, shifting winds present an additional challenge, endangering the safety of firefighters as they endeavor to establish containment lines on the fire’s northern and eastern perimeters.
To aid those affected, an evacuation shelter is operational at the Window Rock Fighting Scouts Event Center on Route 12, where donations are welcomed. Additionally, a facility for large animals has been established at the Dean C. Jackson Memorial Arena in St. Michaels.
In response to the escalating situation, Navajo Nation President Buu Nygren has declared a state of emergency. This decision, backed unanimously by the Navajo Commission on Emergency Management, unlocks access to extra funding for personnel and equipment necessary for firefighting efforts.
Moreover, President Nygren has instituted heightened stage 2 fire restrictions across the Navajo Nation. These measures prohibit all open flames, including campfires and charcoal, and restrict the use of firearms and internal combustion tools.
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