Pocket Fire Explodes: Northern Arizona Choked by Smoke

The Pocket Fire, located west of Oak Creek Canyon north of Sedona, saw its size more than double overnight between June 28 and June 29, now encompassing over 11,000 acres. Smoke has become a significant issue across northern Arizona, with dense haze in Flagstaff and ash falling downtown on June 29 due to winds pushing the flames northward.

As of a June 29 morning update, the fire was 0% contained, despite the deployment of over 900 personnel. Suppression efforts are severely challenged by dry conditions, fierce winds, and the rugged, steep terrain characteristic of the canyon. Firefighting resources are also strained nationally due to federal budget cuts.

Efforts are concentrated on protecting the Oak Creek drainage, though inaccessible steep terrain makes direct intervention difficult. A public meeting in Sedona was postponed, with officials opting for a livestreamed update on the Coconino National Forest Facebook page. Oak Creek Canyon, Kachina Village, Forest Highlands, and Pine Del remain in 'set' evacuation status, urging residents to prepare for immediate departure.

Visitor access to Oak Creek Canyon is restricted, with campgrounds, day-use sites, and forest roads closed. Travel on State Route 89A between Sedona and Kachina Village is also limited. The city of Flagstaff has advised residents with respiratory issues to limit outdoor activity due to unhealthy air quality, even suggesting DIY air purifiers.