Scholo Museum recalls Rodeo Ceta Sky Fire's 23rd anniversary and its impact on Show Low

The Show Low Museum hosted a discussion on April 25, 2025, focusing on the historic Rodeo-Chediski Fire, which occurred 23 years ago. This fire was notable for being the fourth largest in U.S. history and the largest in Arizona's history, both of which were human-caused.

The meeting highlighted the fire's origins, beginning on June 18, 2002, at the Rodeo grounds on the White Mountain Apache Indian Reservation. The fire quickly escalated, threatening the communities of Show Low, Pinedale, and Clay Springs. Just two days later, another human-caused fire ignited near Heber Overgaard, exacerbated by strong winds and dry conditions, leading to the two fires merging into a massive 50-mile swath of flames.

The local community and numerous firefighting resources rallied to combat the blaze, which ultimately destroyed over 400 homes in Timberland Acres. Fortunately, as the fire approached Show Low, the winds calmed, allowing firefighters to manage the situation more effectively. The fire transitioned from a crown fire, which is nearly impossible to control, to burning the underbrush, making it more manageable.

The speaker emphasized the importance of fire safety and urged the community to remain vigilant in preventing future fires. The museum remains open Wednesday through Saturday from 10 AM to 3 PM, inviting the public to learn more about this significant event in local history.