The Pipeline Fire was reported on June 12, 2022, approximately 6 miles north of Flagstaff within the Coconino National Forest. The fire burned 26,532 acres, including portions of the Schultz Creek and Chimney watersheds. A burn scar assessment and flood modeling subsequently showed potential post-wildfire flood risk to neighborhoods on the west side of Flagstaff. Both the City of Flagstaff and the Coconino County Flood Control District are collaborating with public and private partners and taking extensive measures and precautions to mitigate damage from future potential flood events.
The City of Flagstaff and the Coconino County Flood Control District, in partnership with Coconino County Emergency Management, conduct an annual review of rainfall gauge thresholds to determine when emergency notifications should be sent out to neighborhoods impacted by post-wildfire flooding during rain events. This year’s review for the Schultz Creek/ Pipeline West flood area determined that no changes are needed from the thresholds used last year. During rain events in 2023, emergency notifications will continue to be sent out as per the established thresholds outlined in the graphic below. Flood Directors will also take into account the capacity of Schultz Creek Detention Basins and other watershed conditions when determining when to send out emergency notifications.
Residents are urged to sign up for emergency notifications at coconino.az.gov/ready to ensure they receive potentially lifesaving notifications on flood alerts this monsoon season.