FLAGSTAFF – Firefighters made great progress yesterday, increasing containment line on the Museum Fire to 35%. Crews have been able to work closer to the fire’s edge, going direct in some areas, where safe to do so. The new containment came mostly south of Shultz Tank and north of Dry Lake Hills on the north edge of the fire and northeast of Elden Mountain on the east side of the fire in the scar from the Radio Fire.

Initial attack crews assigned to the fire responded to two new starts as well as helped fill sandbags for Coconino EOC yesterday, as concerns over potential flooding remain. The new fires were suppressed quickly and do not currently pose any threats.

Today, firefighters will continue to work to increase containment, going direct where possible, monitoring hot spots along the perimeter and responding to any new fires reported in the area. Crews also are working on suppression repair along Schultz Pass Road.

A drying trend will continue through Monday which could result in an increase in fire behavior. Fire perimeter growth is not anticipated but there still are areas of concern with rugged terrain making access to some portions of the fire difficult.

The Coconino National Forest Closure Order remains in effect. For your safety and of firefighters, the public is not allowed in the fire area. Please visit the fire’s Inciweb page for a map of open trails and recreation areas.