Single Publication

Pius Fire Containment at 77%; Fire Transitioning Back to Forest 

Acres: 1,999 acres  

Start Date: 07/08/24 

Location: 20 miles NE of Payson, AZ  

Personnel: 257 

Containment: 77%  

Fuels: Timber 

Resources:      1 IA Crew & 1 Type 2 Crew | 2 Helicopters | 11 Engines | 6 Water Tenders | 2 Dozers  

Highlights: The Southwest Area Incident Management Team will be transitioning management of the Pius Fire back to the Apache-Sitgreaves National Forests Wednesday following increased containment on the fire. The public is asked to continue adhering to all posted orders and closures for safety. This will be the final update for the Pius Fire unless significant activity occurs. 

Fire Activity: The southern portion of the Pius Fire received nearly half an inch of precipitation Sunday, and minimal smoldering was observed within the northern half of the fire perimeter. Fire crews and equipment will continue to perform mop up operations and suppression repairs as needed in and around the fire area. Small pockets of fuel well within the interior may continue to burn and produce minimal smoke. The public is asked to use caution when driving in the area to ensure the safety of the fire crews. 

Weather: Scattered thunderstorms, slightly cooler temperatures and higher humidity are expected again Monday. Area thunderstorms will be capable of producing heavy, wetting rains, gusty winds and frequent lightning. 

Smoke: The Pius Fire is producing very little smoke. Residual smoke from wildfires throughout the Southwest may continue to settle in low-lying areas including the communities of Christopher Creek, Payson, Young, Forest Lakes, Heber-Overgaard, and Highway 260. For updates on smoke conditions in your local area visit www.fire.airnow.gov. 

Closures/ Evacuations: For updated on evacuation statuses please visit the Coconino County Emergency Management website at https://www.coconino.az.gov/.  

Check the Apache-Sitgreaves National Forests at https://www.fs.usda.gov/asnf for updates and information on forest closure orders. 

More Information: 

Fire Information: 928-216-3127                            Email: 2024.pius@firenet.gov 

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/apachesitgreavesnfs                           

Inciweb: https://inciweb.wildfire.gov/incident-information/azasf-pius-fire