Williams, Ariz., July 7, 2023 – Current and forecast weather continues to be a major factor for fire managers as they plan operations on the Ridge and Three Lakes fires. Crews and an incident meteorologist are collecting localized data to track and predict wind speed and direction, high and low temperatures, and maximum and minimum humidity at multiple times throughout the day and night. This information enables fire managers to strategize what actions to take, where and when, ensuring they are staying ahead of and influencing the direction and intensity of the fire’s movement.

During the management of these fires, crews utilize tactical firing operations to reinforce fire lines to keep the fire within the designated planning area. They only conduct these operations when weather conditions are appropriate to meet incident objectives. When the weather is questionable for applying fire like it is today, crews focus instead on improving protections around perimeters and around infrastructure and other sensitive sites.

Ridge Fire: 4,291 acres with slow growth within the planning area.

Three Lakes Fire: 5,146 acres with slow growth within the planning area. Some short-term smoke impacts to State Route 67 are possible. Motorists should be prepared to slow down or briefly stop. Fire Managers are coordinating with Arizona Department of Transportation and pilot cars may be used if necessary.

Hull Fire: 1,491 with no growth.