‘Pocket Fire’ sparks near Sedona, evacuation orders in place

SEDONA, AZ — Fire officials say the Pocket Fire, a wildfire near Sedona, began around 5 p.m. on Friday.

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State Route 89A is closed near Sedona between Fort Tuthill and the north end of Sedona, according to the Coconino National Forest Service.

Officials say the closure is in both directions between Sedona and Interstate 17 near mileposts 374 to 397.

As of 6 p.m. on Sunday, the fire has reached 320 acres and remains at 0% containment.

According to the Coconino County Sheriff’s Office, a GO order is in effect for all visitors and residents in Oak Creek Canyon between Sedona and Forest Highlands, including dispersed camping around West Fork and nearby areas above the Rim.

Forest Service officials say visitors to End/Edge of the World are asked to evacuate. Drivers can use Woody Mountain Road (Forest Road 231) to exit.

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Fire officials said resources assigned to the blaze now include seven Hotshot crews, 13 engines, a dozer, six helicopters and air attack, along with additional personnel.

Crews spent Saturday night building containment lines around the fire and using aircraft to drop retardant along the eastern edge. Officials said fire behavior remained active well into the night.

A Temporary Flight Restriction remains in effect over the fire area. Officials are reminding the public not to fly drones near the wildfire, as they can interfere with firefighting aircraft and create safety hazards.

A shelter opened its doors Friday night for evacuees at Sedona Red Rock High School near Upper Red Rock Loop Road.

It is unclear how the fire began.

The wildfire remains under investigation.