FLAGSTAFF, Ariz. — The Flagstaff Fire Department has announced plans to conduct a 15-acre prescribed fire on Thursday, September 18, 2025, in the Observatory Mesa area.
Residents should anticipate visible smoke from many parts of Flagstaff. Localized smoke impacts are also possible in and around the burn area. Fire officials are reminding the community that prescribed burns are carefully planned and managed by trained crews to ensure public safety and minimize disruptions.
According to the Fire Department, prescribed fire is a critical tool for reducing the risk of large, destructive wildfires that threaten Flagstaff communities. It also plays a vital role in restoring forest health and resilience across northern Arizona.
“Prescribed fire helps reduce undesirable wildfire risk to our community and increase forest health,” officials said in a statement.
The Flagstaff Fire Department encourages residents seeking further details to visit their [Wildland Fire Management webpage] for resources and updates about ongoing forest health initiatives.
Please do not report smoke from this prescribed burn as a wildfire.
