Fire modeling reveals flood risks in Rio De Flag watershed following past fires

On June 4, 2025, Coconino County officials convened a community meeting in Fort Valley to address pressing concerns regarding wildfire risks and their potential impacts on local watersheds. The discussions highlighted the historical context of wildfires in the region, referencing significant incidents such as the Schultz and Pipeline fires, which have demonstrated the destructive potential of wind-driven fires in the area.

The meeting emphasized the importance of understanding fire behavior and its consequences on the Rio De Flag watershed. Officials presented findings from recent fire modeling studies that assessed current vegetation conditions and past fire events. The analysis revealed that even relatively small fires could have severe downstream effects, particularly during heavy rainfall events.

A detailed map was shared, illustrating burn severity across different areas, with color codes indicating low, moderate, and high burn severity. This visual representation underscored the varying impacts that fires could have on neighborhoods, depending on their location and the intensity of subsequent rainstorms.

The discussion also included insights from past flood assessments related to previous fires, such as the Museum and Schultz fires. Officials noted that data collected from rainfall gauges over the last two decades has been instrumental in informing their modeling efforts. They highlighted the significance of high-intensity, short-duration storms, which have historically led to significant flooding in burn scar areas.

In conclusion, the meeting served as a critical platform for raising awareness about wildfire risks and the need for proactive measures to mitigate potential flooding impacts. As Coconino County continues to grapple with the realities of climate change and its effects on local ecosystems, community engagement and informed decision-making will be essential in safeguarding the region's future.