STRAWBERRY, Ariz. — Fire crews are currently fighting the Backbone Fire, burning near Strawberry since June 16.
The fire has burned 40,855 acres as of Wednesday, official reports state.
Here’s a breakdown of everything we know on the fire:
How many acres has it burned?
The Backbone Fire has burned more than 40,855 acres and is 76% contained as of Wednesday, documents state.
"Firefighters continued to monitor the fire progression around both the western and eastern flanks of the fire and continued to prepare containment features to support today’s operations," officials said.
Around 697 personnel have been assigned to the fire.
Are there any evacuations?
There are no communities currently under the "GO" order or have been asked to evacuate.
The following communities are under the "SET" order and have been asked to prepare for possible evacuation:
- Strawberry
- Hunt Ranch
- Pine
The following communities are under the "READY" order and have been asked to prepare to evacuate:
- Verde Lakes
- Beasley Flats
What roads or highways have been closed?
All Tonto, Coconino, and Prescott National Forest lands, roads, and trails in the area of the Backbone Fire are closed.
State Route 260 is closed between Camp Verde and State Route 87. State Route 87 is closed north of Strawberry to Lake Mary Road.
Authorities have also closed US 191 south of Alpine between mileposts 175 and 250.
Are there any shelters available for residents who may be evacuated?
Officials have not announced any plans to open shelters for possible evacuees at this time.
How can I help people affected by the fire?
We will add any information on how to help affected community members as info becomes available. Please check back for updates.
Residents in evacuation areas are urged to have an emergency supplies kit to bring with them when leaving their homes.
The National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) recommends that residents near a disaster store emergency supplies in a plastic tub, small suitcase, trash can, backpack, or other containers.
Residents should make sure they have the necessities, such as three gallons of water per person and a three-day supply of ready-to-eat food, the NFPA said. A first-aid kit, prescription medications, contact lenses, and non-prescription drugs should also be taken into account.
Copies of any important family documents, including insurance policies, identification, bank account records, and emergency contact numbers should also be taken and put into a waterproof, portable container in your kit, the NFPA said.
The association lists other items that would help in a disaster, including:
Sleeping bag or warm blanket for each person
Battery-powered or hand-cranked radio and an NOAA weather radio to receive up-to-date information
Dust mask or cotton T-shirt to filter the air
Matches in a waterproof container
Complete change of clothing including long pants, long sleeve shirts, and sturdy shoes stored in a waterproof container
Signal flare
The entire NFPA checklist of supplies can be found here.
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