Weather prevented firefighters from continuing firing operations Tuesday night on the Backbone Fire

The fire has burned over 38,000 acres near Strawberry, Arizona

2:28 p.m. MDT June 23, 2021

Backbone Fire June 22, 2021
Backbone Fire 8:23 a.m. MDT, June 22, 2021.

The weather Tuesday night made it impossible to obtain heat sensing data from satellites or fly the fixed wing mapping aircraft to obtain the latest perimeter information for the Backbone Fire. It also prevented additional firing operations along Highway 260. The last time the fire was mapped it was 38,321 acres.

On the west side, crews continue to monitor the fire as it nears the east side of the Verde River. Contingency lines near Beasley Flat and Camp Verde are being improved. Preparation efforts also continue along State Route 260 and near structures and other infrastructure for additional firing operations. Firefighters continue to hold, patrol, and secure the east side of the fire. Personnel and aircraft are working in the southeast area, including Hardscrabble Canyon and Deadman Mesa, to prevent fire from becoming established in the drainage.

To see all articles on Wildfire Today about the Backbone Fire, including the most recent, click HERE.

The communities of Pine and Strawberry are still under evacuation orders.

Firefightrers install defensive sprinkler system
Firefighters install defensive sprinkler system in the Strawberry area. InciWeb photo.

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Author: Bill Gabbert

After working full time in wildland fire for 33 years, he continues to learn, and strives to be a Student of Fire.