Single Publication

Watch Fire: 2,162 acres 

Start Date: July 10, 2024

Cause: Human Caused, Under Investigation

Fuels:  Cottonwood, Brush, Understory

Containment:  100%

Resources: 148

Location: 7 Mile and Peridot Districts, San Carlos Reservation 

100% Containment Achieved on the Watch Fire

Overview: Yesterday, the final piece of containment line was secured around the Watch Fire bringing the total containment to 100 percent. Firefighters will continue to patrol and monitor around structures and the fire perimeter today. Smoke may still be visible occasionally within the containment lines.

Weather: The Watch Fire is expected to see temperatures around 100-105 degrees in lower elevations with light west/southwest winds between 5-15 mph and gusts up to 25 mph. Storm cells will continue to develop erratically with a high probability of lightning which may cause new fire starts.

Safety: Additional fire personnel are available to respond to any new fires which may occur in the area. Please do not fly drones anywhere near the fire. Drones can endanger firefighting aircraft. If you fly, we can’t.

Smoke: Smoke-sensitive individuals and people with respiratory problems or heart disease are encouraged to take precautionary measures. 

Reminder: Stage 1 Fire Restrictions remain in place on the San Carlos Apache Reservation. Due to extreme drought, increasing temperatures and no rain predicted soon, the potential of catastrophic wildfire remains high. This restriction is for the protection of public health, safety, property, and natural resources. No burn permits will be issued at this time. For more information call Fire Prevention (928) 475-2326 Ext: 352, 321 or (928) 961-0515 or email asteele@forestry.scatnsn.gov or wsteele@forestry.scatnsn.gov. 

Evacuations: The following communities remain at “SET” (be alert) Status: 

• Lower Seven Mile Wash, 
• New Moonbase,
• Farmers Station, 
• Downtown San Carlos, and
• Peridot Siding. 

Residents are asked to avoid burned structures due to hazardous materials that may have long term health effects. For more information, call the San Carlos Apache Tribe Emergency Response Commission (TERC) at 928-475-2008 or visit the TERC or the San Carlos Police Department Facebook pages. See below.