Bolt Fire update, July 16
Flagstaff, AZ – The Bolt Fire continues to burn at a moderate intensity across the forest floor northeast of Munds Park. Firefighters are managing the fire to achieve multiple resource objectives including reducing hazardous fuels and protecting and enhancing wildlife habitat. Recent precipitation, higher humidity, and increased fuel moisture have lowered fire danger significantly, and fire managers are taking advantage of this opportunity to utilize fire’s natural role in this fire-dependent ecosystem. Fire recycles nutrients back into the soil, promoting the growth of grasses and other vegetation, and reduces accumulated fuels that could lead to more intense fire under drier conditions.
Last night, smoke settled toward the Munds Park area, and was also noticeable in the Doney Park area off I-40. Today’s ventilation conditions should help smoke lift from the communities as the day warms. Fire managers are expecting another day of steady fire movement across the landscape; smoke will be visible from the Flagstaff area, especially around Mountainaire, Munds Park, Lake Mary Meadows and Elk Park Meadows. Smoke behavior tonight should be similar to last night. Through the duration of this fire, crews will be closely monitoring fire behavior and conditions including smoke impacts to the community, as well as the forecast conditions.
Bolt Fire Facts
Behavior: Short flame lengths, slow movement across the forest floor. Fire will be steadily progressing throughout the day. In the evening and early morning, expect similar smoke as last night.
Start Date: July 11, 2011
Location: Approximately 6 miles northeast of Munds Park, between I-17 and Lake Mary Road
Size: 147 acres
Road Closures: There are no road closures at this time, but travelers in the area should be cautious of fire crews and equipment.
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