APS recounts Aug. 24 microburst that left much of Camp Verde without power; council presses on sheltering and preparedness

Arizona Public Service representatives told the Camp Verde mayor and council on Nov. 5 that a microburst on Aug. 24 damaged several distribution lines and caused a widespread power outage. Frank Sanderson described how APS monitored the storm and the types of damage crews encountered, and Brittan Wilson explained the safety measures crews used while restoring power.

Wilson emphasized that customers should "keep their contact information current to ensure they receive timely alerts and updates from APS," and staff described how APS crews prioritized safety and assessed outages before restoring service. Mayor Marie Moore and several council members pressed APS and town staff on evacuation and sheltering options, asking where residents would go if the town experienced a prolonged outage.

Town Manager Miranda Fisher told the council that Public Works Director Ken Krebbs and Acting Town Marshal Daniel Jacobs are developing an Emergency Operations Plan (EOP) and a Continuity of Operations Plan (COOP). Fisher said staff will be required to complete FEMA National Incident Management System training and that the council will hold a more in‑depth preparedness work session in spring 2026 to review town and partner readiness and community actions residents can take to prepare.

The presentation did not include a firm list of designated town shelters or an agreed plan for accommodating residents who lose power for extended periods; councilors asked staff to return with options and clarifications at the follow‑up session. The special session ended with no formal action on emergency shelters; the town anticipates next steps will be staff follow‑up and the spring 2026 work session.