21 hours ago
Oak Ridge Fire at 1.8K acres, 0% containment near Window Rock in eastern Arizona
A wildfire that ignited near Window Rock remained at 0% containment on the morning of June 29.
The Oak Ridge Fire was reported June 28, roughly 4 miles south of Summit Road, in the community of St. Michaels — about 10 minutes west of Window Rock — according to a Facebook post from the Navajo Nation Police Department.
The fire was reportedly sparked by wood haulers, according to Navajo Nation police.
As of the afternoon of June 29, the seemingly small fire had burned at least 1,800 acres with 0% containment, according to the Bureau of Indian Affairs, Navajo Region.
As of June 29, there were no reports of injuries or deaths.
Navajo Nation President Buu Nygren posted on Facebook that the evacuation status remained at "ready" and encouraged residents to remain vigilant regarding the fire's status and to evacuate if possible as a precaution. Nygren added that the Bee Hółdzil Fighting Scouts Events Center in Fort Defiance is the official evacuation shelter for families and donations could be dropped off there.
Suggested donations include:
Ziplock bags to distribute dog and cat food.
Hair brushes or hair ties.
Feminine hygiene products such as pads, tampons, and wipes.
Plates, forks, utensils, bowls, spoons, forks, napkins, cups, gloves.
Blankets, cots.
Toiletries such as shampoo, toothbrushes, toothpaste, towels, lotion, soap and toilet paper.
Prepared food.
Snacks (cookies, fruit cups).
Diapers, wipes and formula.
Nygren added that the road to Oak Ridge remained closed and urged people to avoid the fire zone, as some had created public safety concerns by doing so.
Livestock were being relocated to the Window Rock Fairground with Navajo Forestry, Fish and Wildlife and park rangers assisting. Those with livestock who need additional information can call 928-270-8062.
The Commission on Emergency Management was scheduled to meet with Nygren at 11 a.m. and was expected to implement stage 2 fire restrictions for the Navajo Nation.
Reach the reporter Perry Vandell at or 602-444-2474. Follow him on X, formerly known as Twitter, @PerryVandell.
(This story has been updated to add more information.)
This article originally appeared on Arizona Republic: Oak Ridge Fire at 1.8K acres, 0% containment near Window Rock
