Single Publication

FLAGSTAFF, Ariz., April 19, 2022 — At zero containment, the Tunnel Fire located 14 miles northeast of Flagstaff has grown substantially due to high winds and spread toward the northeast at high rate, eventually moving across U.S. Highway 89.Fire managers currently estimate the fire to be approximately 6,000 acres, and more than 200 firefighters and personnel are currently assigned to the fire.

Area evacuations have been ordered, and up-to-date evacuation information can be found via the Coconino County Tunnel Fire page. Evacuees can also call the Coconino County Emergency Call Center at 928-679-8525.

Structures threatened include the community in Doney Park near the fire, and we cannot confirm as of this news release whether or not any homes have been destroyed.

Current firefighting resources include five handcrews, 15 engines, and three dozers. Air tankers were ordered earlier this afternoon to aid in the firefight but were diverted due to high winds that surpassed wind thresholds for air resource purposes. Partner agencies such as Flagstaff Fire Department, Summit FD, Highlands FD, and state crews have also aided in intial and continued response.

A Type 1 Incident Management Team has been ordered and personnel, assets and resources from the team will arrive over the next two days.

U.S Highway 89 is closed between mileposts 425-435, so motorists traveling toward Page will need to find an alternate route.

For up to date information regarding the Tunnel Fire, please visit the incident page at https://inciweb.nwcg.gov/incident/8068/

ATTENTION MEDIA: A media briefing will be held at 7 p.m. tonight at the Peaks View County Park at 8805 Koch Field Road, Flagstaff, AZ 86004.

 TUNNEL FIRE OVERVIEW

• Date reported: April 18, 2022
• Cause: Under investigation.
• Origin: 14 miles northeast of Flagstaff, Doney Park. (GPS: 35.304167, -111.588611)
• Current size: 6,000 acres
• Percent contained: 0%
• Current resources: More than 200 firefighters, 15 engines, three dozers, and air tankers. A Type 1 Team has been ordered.
• Predicted smoke impacts: Smoke will impact the Doney Park area in the evening as temperatures drop and smoke drains. During afternoon hours, smoke will move toward the northeast.
• Current closures: U.S. Highway 89 is closed from milepost 425 to 435.
• Evacuation information: Please visit the Coconino County Emergency Management page at www.coconino.az.gov/2894/Tunnel-Fire