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Cross Fire continues to grow
Fire consumes 200 acres

WILLIAMS, Ariz. - The Cross Fire on the Williams Ranger District of the Kaibab National Forest is continuing to grow due to warmer and drier conditions, and fire managers are pleased with its effects. The fire, which was started by lightning June 30, has grown to 200 acres. It is located about 18 miles south southeast of Williams near Bar Cross Tank.

Approximately 50 fire personnel are assigned to the Cross Fire and are working to prepare identified boundary roads for blacklining operations. During blacklining operations, firefighters burn fuels along designated boundaries in order to limit the fire's growth in specific directions.

Today, firefighters are working to prepare forest roads 105, 127 and 126 for eventual blacklining.

The goal is to secure those boundary roads to prevent the fire from spreading south and east. Assisting in the work are the Kaibab fuels crew, two Kaibab engines, a Kaibab dozer, the Kaibab helitack crew, a Coconino National Forest engine, and the Flagstaff Hotshots. The Saguaro Fire Use Module is expected to arrive later today.

The Cross Fire will likely continue growing over the next several days, as weather conditions are expected to be warmer and drier. As the fire burns through the forest understory and accumulations of forest debris, it is helping to reestablish the ecological role of fire and is promoting forest health.

Smoke is very visible from Interstate 40, Williams and the Verde Valley. During overnight hours, smoke may move into the Verde Valley or Williams depending on wind speed and direction.

There are no closures associated with the Cross Fire. However, visitors should use caution when traveling in the area and should watch for firefighting vehicles and personnel.

For additional information on the Cross Fire, please visit www.inciweb.org/incident/1717/ or contact Jackie Banks at (928) 635-8314.


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