Heavy Smoke Blankets Sedona as Wildfires Rage Near Payson

Severe smoke in the Verde Valley was reported on the morning of Thursday, September 26, resulting from the nearby West Fire and Preacher Fire. The West Fire spans 15,053 acres while the Preacher Fire covers 3,167 acres, both located near Payson. Smoke is shifting northwest, affecting air quality in surrounding areas.

Strong winds are transporting smoke from both fires into the Verde Valley. Additionally, the Brigade Fire, burning southwest of Flagstaff, has also been monitored, but prevailing winds are guiding its smoke northwest over the Grand Canyon.

Currently, the West Fire is approximately 51% contained. First detected on August 28, this lightning-caused wildfire predominantly consumes ponderosa pine, mixed conifer, and chaparral. Firefighting efforts include a workforce of 165 personnel who are actively engaged in containment operations.

A local Type 3 Team took command of the West Fire on September 25, focusing on securing fire lines and repairing damage. On the same day, controlled burns were used to ignite unburned fuels within the fire’s perimeter, increasing smoke and ash visibility in nearby communities.

Crews are now backhauling equipment that is no longer needed. Excavators are actively working to mend damage along the eastern edge of the fire near 646 Road. Residents of Pine and Geronimo Estates should remain alert, as fire activity may be visible at night while the evacuation status in these areas is under review.

The public is advised to avoid the vicinity of the fires and exercise caution around fire equipment. Smoke impacts from the West Fire may linger for several days, particularly in lower areas during mornings before rising with higher temperatures. Those with respiratory issues should take extra precautions.

The Tonto National Forest has imposed a closure on areas around the West Fire, including the Pine Trailhead. Residents near the fire, particularly on the east side of SR 87, have been placed in SET status, indicating a heightened state of awareness regarding potential evacuations.

The Preacher Fire, burning approximately four miles northeast of Pine, is also being managed under a strategy aimed at confining and containing it. This approach protects private lands and local communities while reintroducing fire into a fire-dependent ecosystem. The long-term goal is to improve wildlife habitats and watershed conditions, thus mitigating the risks of future high-severity fires.

In response to ongoing fire management needs, the Arizona Department of Environmental Quality, alongside the Arizona Department of Forestry and Fire Management and the U.S. Forest Service, will hold a hybrid community meeting on October 2 in Camp Verde. The meeting will focus on prescribed fire plans and smoke management practices.

During this session, communities will gain insights into the benefits of prescribed burns, which are crucial for forest health and resilience. Controlled burns help reduce hazardous fuel build-up and recycle nutrients into the soil—fostering diverse wildlife habitats.

Roy Hall, Fire Officer for the DFFM, emphasized the complexities of managing Arizona’s landscapes. Meanwhile, Ron Sherron of the USFS highlighted efforts on improving smoke condition forecasts to protect both public health and that of firefighters.

Although prescribed burns generate some smoke, the ADEQ is committed to minimizing public health risks. Effective burns are conducted during optimal weather to ensure air quality remains high for residents.

The upcoming community meeting offers a platform for residents to connect with officials and gain a deeper understanding of local fire management strategies. Participants can attend in person or virtually, and have the opportunity to ask questions regarding smoke and fire management issues.