Because of warmer, drier weather conditions, two lightning-caused wildfires burning on the North Rim are producing an increased amount of visible smoke. Following four days in a row of no growth, the combination of increased daytime temperatures, light winds, no precipitation and available fuels were enough to encourage additional spread. Aerial ignitions and firing operations were also successfully conducted to help check and direct the fire’s movement through the canyon.
Mastication work along Forest Road 226 continues and firing operations along the fire’s southeastern perimeter are helping to fortify the control lines. Firefighters are making excellent progress and staying ahead of the fire, while ensuring that the firing operations are effective and conducted safely.