Single Publication

Racetrack Fire Update - July 27, 2023

Location: North of Highway 169, south of Crater Mountain near the community of Cherry 

Start Date:  July 23, 2023

Size: 405 acres

Cause: Lightning

Containment: 40%

Resources: 1 Type-1 Crew, 7 Type-2 Crews, 4 Engines, 1 Dozer and additional support personnel.

Fire behavior: Low fire behavior

Types of vegetation in the area (aka fuels): Grass, Brush

SUMMARY: Containment on the Racetrack Fire has increased to 40% thanks to firefighters with some help from passing storms.  Firefighters are slowly walking the perimeter of the fire checking for heat and extinguishing burning fuels.  For safety reason, firefighters are taking their time due to steep rugged terrain and weather conditions.  With above average heat, possibilities of afternoon thunderstorms with lightening and winds; the safety of our firefighters is priority #1.  Unburned heavy fuels in the interior of the Racetrack Fire will continue to burn producing some smoke.

Again, we would like to remind the public of the importance of fuel treatment across the forest; prescribed fire and mechanical treatments are necessary to reduce heavy fuels needed to carry unwanted wildfires.  Prepping for a future prescribed burn south of Cherry slowed the progression of the Racetrack Fire into the community of Cherry.

Today monsoon showers and storms are expected to develop in the afternoon, bring gusty winds and lightning.  

Evacuations – Please follow Yavapai County Sheriff’s Office Facebook page for current evacuation information at: https://www.facebook.com/YavapaiCountySheriff or call their non-emergency number at 928-771-3260.

FIRE RESTRICTIONS: The entire Prescott National Forest is under Stage 1 Fire Restrictions which prohibits building, maintaining, attending, or using a fire, campfire, or stove fire, including charcoal and briquettes, outside a structure that is provided by the Forest Service within designated areas for portions of the forest. Under these restrictions, discharging a firearm, air rifle or gas gun, except for persons engaged in legal hunting activities, is prohibited on the Prescott National Forest. Fireworks and the use of exploding targets are always prohibited year-round on national forests.

For fire information please call (928) 925-1111 .