The Oak Ridge Fire has grown to 10,814 with containment at 26%, prompting evacuation alerts across Navajo communities. As the fire grows, personnel increases. 

A total of 604 personnel are actively fighting the fire. In surrounding areas they are still in the “Ready, Set, Go” status. Zone 12 remains as the only area in “Go” evacuation order. Zone 1, 2, 4, 10 and 11 are in “Set” status. While zones 3, 5, 6, 7, 8, and 9 are in “Ready” status. High winds and dry fuels continue to challenge fire crews working to protect homes, livestock and sacred land. Fire crews are making steady progress and community support has been strong. Volunteers, local agencies and families come together to help those in need. 

The Navajo Nation is under Stage 2 Fire Restrictions which prohibits the use or sale of fireworks, trash and debris burning, outdoor wood fires (unless approved and registered through the Navajo Nation EPA for ceremonial purposes by calling 928-729-4246), firearm discharge, and operating chainsaws or welding equipment.

Remain vigilant, stay safe, and know that we are strongest when we stand together.

According to Navajo Department of Emergency Management, the Oak Ridge Fire is now 13% contained. 

There are currently 609 fire fighters on the ground working to continue containing the fire.

Additionally, Zones 1 and 2 areas evacuation status has been changed from “Go” (leave immediately) status to “Set”(be ready to leave at any moment) statuses. 

DONATIONS 

As for Donations to the Fighting Scouts Event Center and Ganado Field House Evacuation Shelter locations have changed to a “HARD STOP” for donations except for hay and pet food for livestock and pets. 

NDEM is moving to recovery status as there is more control on the fire which means they do not need immediate donations. 

Continue to stay informed and alert on updates regarding the impacted ares of the Oak Ridge Fire areas.

I want to give a huge thank you to our first responders and fire fighters who have worked countless hours to get to this point of containment and we continue to pray for more containment and safety go the residents and those on the front lines. 

Axhe’he 

-Navajo Nation President Buu Nygren

In this time of crisis, when we – as Navajo People – should be supporting and caring for each other, it is a shame that we have to read sensationalism and false information in headlines from our own Navajo newspaper.

The Navajo Times’ recent Facebook post reads, “The Oak Ridge Fire has its first two casualties with the cancelation of the Ahóóhai Days 4th of July Celebration and the Cody Jesus Invitational.”

There have been no deaths or injuries confirmed nor reported.

This is absolutely shameful, inappropriate and insensitive to those who have been impacted by the Oak Ridge Fire, as this false information has instilled fear in our people.

It is disheartening that we cannot rely on our own Navajo newspaper to provide accurate, reliable information. This is not journalism. This is unethical and irresponsible.

Shame on the Navajo Times.

-Navajo Nation President Buu Nygren

As of 8AM, the Oak Ridge Fire is 6% contained, according to Navajo Department of Emergency Management.

In addition, the west parts of Klagetoh (Zone 6, 7 and 8 have gone back to “Ready” status. This is a positive change from yesterday when the community was put on “Go” status (which means to leave immediately).

Please stay alert and vigilant, stay informed and plan ahead! Continue to pray for our communities and families impacted by this fire. And thank you to our firefighters and first responders for their work!

With the ongoing efforts of the Oak Ridge Fire, there have been a number of GoFundMe pages purporting to collect funds to help with fire efforts.

Importantly:

•⁠  ⁠The Navajo Nation or the Incident Command Center has NOT asked for any monetary funds. The government will NOT ask for funds.

•⁠  ⁠⁠Be cautious of any money requests that are purporting to be on behalf of the Navajo Nation officials/departments 

•⁠  ⁠⁠If you want to help, purchase your items and donate to either of the official evacuation shelters for families. Donations are still being accepted at this time.

(1)    The Bee Hotdzil Fighting Scouts Events Center in Fort Defiance or the Ganado Fieldhouse. Information: 505-422-3570 (Note: this is a new phone number)

(2)    Ganado Fieldhouse. For information: 928-349-0815.

Let’s support our community the right way — safely and smartly.

Report any suspicious pages to GoFundMe and do not accept any sort of money requests.

-Navajo Nation President Buu Nygren

According to Navajo Department of Emergency Management, the Zone 2 (far east portions of Klagetoh community, went into “Go” status, which means to “Leave Immediately.”

The BIA’s Fire Management Team, and the Southwest Area Complex Incident Management Team 2, will host a community meeting with community members of Klagetoh Chapter in Klagetoh, Ariz. at 2PM.

The Ganado Fieldhouse in Ganado, AZ is the identified shelter for impacted residents evacuating from Klagetoh. Shelter Details are as follows:

• For information: 928-349-0815 (24/7)

• Availability: Open 24/7 for occupants

• Facilities: Restrooms, showers, snacks, and drinks

• Cots are available at the Ganado Fieldhouse

• Location: East side of the Ganado Unified School District campus, next to “G” Hill.

As of today, the Oak Ridge Fire is still 0% contained and has charred 10,623 acres – over 15 square miles. There are a total of 508 fire fighters fighting the blaze, with 100 homes evacuated and 350 displaced. 

All communities are encouraged to stay alert, stay informed and to plan ahead.

The Navajo Public can call the Oak Ridge Call Center for more information at 505-422-7382.