Charley Fire 3 miles west of Sunflower at 2,300 acres

Charley Fire on Tonto National Forest at 2,300 acres

3 miles west of Sunflower, Ariz., Aug. 15, 2012, 1900 hrs.

Fire Facts

Incident Commander: Andrew Serrano
Date reported: Aug. 12, 1619 hrs.	Number of personnel: 82
Location: 33, 50’ 35” x 111, 31’ 48” 3 miles west of Sunflower, Ariz.	Resources committed: 2 crews 6 engine crews 2 dozers
Cause: Lightning	Aircraft: 2 AZ National Guard helicopters* 1 air attack plane assigned for monitoring fire activity
Acres:  2,300	Cooperators:  Arizona National Guard
Containment:  15 %	Est. cost:  $90,000
Terrain: Steep, rough, inaccessible
Fuels: Short grass

*National Guard Blackhawk PIO:  Sgt. Lauren Devita:  480-735-4881

Summary:   The Charley Fire is burning north of Maverick Mountain (between Bartlett Lake and Hwy. 87). The terrain is extremely steep, rugged and inaccessible. Currently, due to higher humidity and precipitation over the last 24 hours, as well as cooler temperatures, fire activity is minimal.  The fuel load is heavy in the northeast section of the fire and some backing activity on the south end.  There is little remaining interior smoke.  Smoke may be still be visible to several northeast and east Valley communities and from Hwy. 87. 

High temperatures continue to be of concern for firefighter safety.  Extremely rough terrain also complicates firefighting challenges. 

For more information, please contact the Mesa Ranger District at (480) 610-3300, or check online at www.fs.usda.gov/tonto