Incidents All News

Sand Stone and Deer Fire acreage remains unchangedDaily Update – Saturday, August 3, 2024Highlights: Despite higher temperatures and afternoon winds, firefighters have successfully increasedcontainment of the Sand Stone Fire to 78 percent. Minimal smoke and fire activity were observed on both theSand Stone and Deer Fires again yesterday. The “set” status for the community of Sunflower has beendowngraded to “ready”.Total personnel on both incidents: 569

Sand Stone Fire reaches 60 percent containmentDaily Update – Friday, August 2, 2024 Highlights: Due to successful firefighting efforts, the Sand Stone Fire has now reached 60 percent containment. Although State Route 87 has been reopened in both directions, travelers should be mindful on the roadways as firefighting operations are still occurring in this area.

Sand Stone firefighting efforts allow for reopening of Highway 87Daily Update – Thursday, August 1, 2024

For Immediate Release: July 31, 2024Contact: ADOT Public Information Officenews@azdot.gov  Southbound SR 87 reopens south of PaysonFuture restrictions possible as crews continue to fight Sand Stone Fire

Two multi-engine Superscoopers join the Sand Stone FireDaily Update – Wednesday, July 31, 2024Highlights: Containment levels have increased on all three fires. The Sand Stone, Deer, and Davenport Fires are now reported at 20%, 18%, and 93% containment, respectively. Two Canadair CL-415, also known as Superscoopers, joined the Sand Stone Fire yesterday and began dropping water on the fire. These aircraft will continue their work throughout the day.Total personnel on all incidents: 470

Wind and fuel drive the Sand Stone FireDaily Update – Tuesday, July 30, 2024

Please be advised that the Cave Creek and Mesa Ranger District offices are implementing an Emergency Closure Order. The purpose of this Order is to protect public health and safety due to firefighting operations and fire danger associated with the uncontrolled Sand Stone Fire on the Tonto National Forest.This Order shall be in effect from July 29, 2024, at 8 a.m. through August 31, 2024, at 6 p.m., unless rescinded.

Southwest Area Complex Incident Management Team 4 assumes command of the Sand Stone, Deer, and Davenport FiresDaily Update – Monday, July 29, 2024 

Due to breezy conditions and abundant dry fuels, the Sand Stone Fire grew significantly Saturday, mostly to the north and east between Hwy 87 and the Verde River on the Cave Creek Ranger District. Today’s flight mapped the fire at 12,985 acres. There is 0% containment.