Wednesday Morning Update – July 8, 2026
Firefighters continue making steady progress on the Pocket Fire burning north of Sedona, with containment increasing to 53% as crews strengthen existing fire lines and prepare for the possibility of changing weather conditions.
The fire is now mapped at 27,440 acres, with 1,296 personnel assigned to the incident.
Fire Operations
On Tuesday, firefighters made additional progress in the West Fork Drainage, while all established dozer lines continued to hold. Crews remain focused on monitoring, patrolling, and reinforcing containment lines while preparing additional defensive lines along State Route 89A, Seven Canyons, and Red Rock Powerline Road.
Incident managers have also ordered additional aerial firefighting resources, including the establishment of a new helibase in Williams to support expanded air operations. Crews are continuing to identify contingency lines along the fire’s northern perimeter while maintaining resources available for any new wildfire starts.
Firefighters are working directly along the fire’s edge wherever conditions allow. If fire behavior remains favorable, crews will continue strengthening existing dozer lines in previously burned areas and patrol containment lines to ensure they remain secure.
Weather Concerns
While only minimal rainfall fell over the fire Tuesday, firefighters observed two lightning strikes near Secret Mountain along the southwest perimeter of the fire.
Additional thunderstorms are possible again Wednesday afternoon, bringing the potential for lightning and gusty outflow winds. Fire crews remain prepared for rapid initial attack should any new lightning-caused fires develop.
Evacuations and Closures
The Yavapai County Sheriff’s Office has placed the Seven Canyons and Enchantment areas into SET status, meaning residents should be prepared to leave if conditions worsen.
The Coconino National Forest remains under Stage 2 Fire Restrictions, with portions of the forest closed. Sections of State Route 89A and Woody Mountain Road (Forest Road 231) also remain closed. Residents of Oak Creek Canyon must continue entering the canyon from the south.
A Temporary Flight Restriction (TFR) remains in effect over the fire area to protect firefighting aircraft.
Firefighters continue working around the clock to keep the Pocket Fire within established containment lines while preparing for another day of potentially active fire weather.
