Arizona fire danger is low but a rise in temperature could change that

FLAGSTAFF, AZ (AZFamily) — Flagstaff usually hits the mid-70s around May but temperatures are near records Tuesday as they hit 70 degrees.

There was a brief break from fire danger in the High Country after seeing high danger in January. Mark Adams with Flagstaff Fire Department said while it’s back to low now because of the snow, near-record high temperatures could change that fast. “We could be looking at high fire danger within two to three weeks,” Adams said

While winter showers bring May flowers, they also help reduce fire danger. Adams said the recent snow has helped and it also came at an ideal time. “That was exactly what we needed,” he said. “If we were going to ask for snow to come during a dry winter, having it come in late March into spring is the perfect time.”

But this week kicks off a trend of above-average temperatures. According to the website Wildfire Risk, which looks at the average risk, Arizona’s fire likelihood is 82% higher than the national average, and Flagstaff’s is 98% higher. “I wouldn’t be surprised if next week we were up into the moderate range,” Adams said.

He adds that springtime also brings high winds, so low-level fire restrictions could be coming in the next few weeks, as well as other restrictions. “Whenever we have this continuous warm dry weather and those winds pick up, we’re expecting to have some red flag days,” Adams said.

The wind can also help, under the right conditions, to blow smoke out of spring-controlled burns. “Spring is a really good time to do some prescribed burns if we have the right weather,” Adams said.

Local crews are currently training for the upcoming fire season. Adams said crews from around the state and country will also be helping during peak fire season. “Of course, May and June are our driest months and that’s when we’ll have extra resources,” Adams said. “The Forest Service will bring extra resources into town. We’ve experienced these early spring fires in the past and we’re ready in case that happens sooner.”

In the meantime, locals should have a go bag ready and an evacuation plan. For tourists, check fire restrictions ahead of time, check for dragging chains, and always put out your campfire.

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