Single Publication

Pius Fire Update

Tuesday, July 09, 2024

Location of Origin: 20 miles NE of Payson AZ                                                                          

Size: 1,300 acres 

Start Date: July 8, 2024                                                                                             

Percent Contained: 0

Cause: Undetermined                                                                                                 

Fuels: Ponderosa Pine/Mixed Conifer

Personnel: 76                                                

Resources Assigned: 1 Initial Attack Crew, 4 Helicopters, 4 Engines, 5 Dozers, 1 Water Tender               

The Pius fire is located on the Black Mesa Ranger District, and is located southeast of the CC Cragin Reservoir, southwest of Wiggins Crossing, and north of Bear Canyon Lake. The fire is currently managed under a Type 3 Incident Command structure with a full suppression strategy. The Complex Incident Management Team, Team 1, led by Incident Commander Carl Schwope will assume command of the Pius fire at 6 a.m. on July 10, 2024. 

Operations: Firefighters continue to construct fire line and conduct back firing operations where necessary. Aerial resources are being utilized today over the fire with helicopter support of ground operations. 

Evacuations: The Coconino County Sheriff’s Office has issued a ‘SET’ notice for the immediate area around Knoll Lake and campground. A ‘GO’ notice has been issued to evacuate immediately for people in and around Bear Canyon Lake including the areas north of Forest Road (FR)300, east of FR115, south of FR225, and west of FR34. To find out more about current evacuations visit the Coconino County Emergency Management  website. 

Smoke: Smoke is expected to impact the communities of Christopher Creek, Payson, Young, Forest Lakes, Heber-Overgaard, and Highway 260. All areas within proximity of the fire can be impacted by smoke, depending on wind directions and ventilation. Go to fire.airnow.gov/ to see the latest smoke conditions in your community. 

Values at Risk: KV Powerlines are located roughly 3.5 miles southeast of the fire and supplies power to the Phoenix Metropolitan area. There are private inholdings in proximity to the fire location. Recreation areas along the Rim Lakes are located roughly 5 miles south of the fire location. 

Weather: Hot and dry conditions are expected to continue tomorrow with an expected high of 90 degrees and northwest at 10-15mph.