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Crooks Fire April 29 Update:
Acres: 9,916acres
Percent Containment: 27%
Date Detected: April 18, 2022
Personnel Assigned: 855
Cause: Under investigation
Origin/Location: 11 nautical miles south of Prescott-Bradshaw Ranger District
Since the fire started the challenge of strong winds has hampered firefighting efforts. Fire remains active in the Slate Creek drainage and the lower Crooks Creek drainage. Firefighters were able to control the spot that was an issue just west of Mount Tritle and continue to monitor the area for any activity. Fire in the southwest portion will have fuels transitioning to smaller and lighter brush which can assist with slowing the spread of the fire.
The northwest section of the fire contains a heavy timber fuel model with significant dead and down component contributing to increased fire behavior. Helicopters and fixed wing aircraft will continue operations throughout the day to slow advancement. The fire line boundary to the north is holding as crews continue with mop up operations. Despite these challenges, firefighters remain optimistic and are doing their best to get the upper hand on this fire. Overall, even though the fire has been challenging things are looking good.
WEATHER:
On Friday and Saturday, high pressure will bring a continuation of very dry conditions, but lighter west to southwest winds.
SMOKE INFORMATION:
Residents should be aware of increasing smoke conditions due to winds out of the south. Residents can monitor current conditions for the Crooks Fire, via Arizona Smoke Forecasting system located at https://azdeq.gov/wildfireforecast?fire=crooksfire.
EVACUATIONS:
Yavapai County Sheriff’s Department announced several areas have moved from “READY” to ”SET” status. Residents should visit the Yavapai County Sheriff’s Department Facebook page for additional information. https://www.facebook.com/YavapaiCountySheriff/
FOREST CLOSURE:
To provide public health and safety due to firefighting operations and fire danger associated with the uncontrolled Crooks Fire, the Prescott National Fores has expanded the fire area emergency closure to the south. To view the Crooks Fire area closure order and map visit: Prescott National Forest – Alerts & Notices (usda.gov).
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