Containment increases to 15 percent on Tunnel Fire – Arizona Emergency Information Network – az …

Fire crews’ diligence and hard work have resulted in an increase in containment to 15% on the Tunnel Fire. Yesterday residents were able to re-enter the previously evacuated neighborhoods. US Highway 89 was re-opened yesterday afternoon. Firefighters continue to mop up, patrol and secure existing fireline while constructing new fireline to the northeast portion of the fire.Weather: Conditions are expected to be drier and warmer today. Winds are expected to shift to the southwest and increase in speed Tuesday through Thursday, with possible gusts to 40 miles on hour on Thursday. The fire weather conditions are expected to reach record breaking levels for this time of year.“We’ll be taking advantage of today’s weather to continue securing fireline ahead of the expected winds later this week,” said Incident Commander Randy Johnson. Today’s Activities: Favorable winds today will allow for aviation to assist hand crews as they corral the northeast edge of the fire in the Strawberry Crater Wilderness Area. A 4,000 gallon portable water site, known as a “heliwell” has been set up along Forest Road 545 near Painted Desert Vista.  The newly established heliwell will greatly reduce the turnaround time for helicopters to be able to support mop-up, cold trailing and…
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