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U.S. Forest Service
News Release
Media Contact: Bob Blasi
Increased Fire Activity Expected on Rain and Gallo Fires Near Tusayan
Tusayan, Ariz., July 25, 2018—For Immediate Release. The Rain Fire located 1 mile southeast of the town of Tusayan has grown to approximately 18 acres in size and will see a significant increase in activity and growth over the next
several days. Discovered on Saturday July 21, fire officials on the Kaibab National Forest decided to allow the lightning caused Rain and Gallo Fires to burn across the landscape in a natural manner to help meet land management objectives.
On the Rain Fire, a designated area of just over 600 acres was identified to allow fire to move through the forest that would not only contribute in attaining these goals, but also increase protection of the community from a future wildfire
occurrence that could potentially be destructive. Several values including timber stands, wildlife habitat, historic cultural sites, and a utility power line have been identified within and adjacent to the planning area. Crews are currently taking actions to secure perimeters and protect
these resources before fire arrives to these locations. Burn out operations are scheduled to occur in order to ensure fire does not compromise or damage these assets. Officials acknowledge that an increase in smoke production will likely occur during these operations and the effects of smoke to residents and visitors could be unpleasant at times, however they can significantly reduce the duration and
the number of days it will linger by using proactive strategies. “We will be conducting these burn out operations early in the day and are expecting excellent ventilation which should help transport the majority of smoke away from the town before it settles in overnight” said Quentin Johnson Fire Management
Officer on the Tusayan Ranger District. “We believe the long term benefits will greatly outweigh the short term inconvenience that should only last a few days”. Smoke sensitive individuals and people with respiratory conditions who may be in the area are encouraged to take precautions over the next few days to avoid exposure to smoke. The Gallo fire 4 miles northeast of Red Butte continues to smolder and creep as wet conditions temporarily subside. Crews will be on scene daily to monitor growth and complete preparation work to protect values at risk. The Gallo fire is
expected to continue to grow moderately over the next several days. Smoke may be visible at times from the town of Tusayan, Grand Canyon Airport, Grand Canyon Village, Valle, and highway 64. Motorists are asked to be aware of fire personnel and vehicles and always use caution when driving near the vicinity
of all fires.
InciWeb: inciweb.nwcg.gov/incident/6002/
inciweb.nwcg.gov/incident/6003/
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Attachment:
1650_d4_Rain_ Gallo Wildfires_2018_07-25-18-FINAL.pdf
Description: 1650_d4_Rain_ Gallo Wildfires_2018_07-25-18-FINAL.pdf
