When Arizona's summer season strikes, the harsh reality of wildfires becomes an unexpected factor causing highway closures and significant delays. The Arizona Department of Transportation (ADOT) and the Arizona Department of Forestry and Fire Management (AZDFFM) have made it clear that safety is the foremost concern during these disruptive events. In situations where wildfires encroach on highways, a common query emerges on social media: why are roads closed when flames are not visibly threatening the asphalt? The answer from officials, as stated in an article published by ADOT, is uncompromisingly about safeguarding the lives of both the public and first responders.
An array of scenarios can lead to either a full highway closure or restrictions to traffic flow. Brush fires, notorious for their fickle and swift nature, along with the multi-agency response effort they necessitate, can create a complex coordination challenge. Brett Rupp, an ADOT highway maintenance supervisor in Payson, explained, "We try to keep the closures as short as possible and give the traveling public at least a lane. But depending on the size or location of the fire, it’s not safe for vehicles to travel past a fire." In a statement obtained by ADOT, Rupp emphasized the priority is safety for everyone involved.
Wildland firefighters often have no choice but to stage their equipment on the highways, leading to prolonged lane closures. Helicopters, an integral part of the firefighting effort, may use the highways to set up portable dip tanks for quick water refills. This introduces another element of risk as the aircraft operate at low altitudes to effectively combat the fires. "Those aircraft fly so low it’s a safety concern. They’re trying to get as low as possible to drop the retardant, and they don’t want to impact the traffic," Tiffany Davila, public affairs officer for AZDFFM, told ADOT. Smoke from the wildfires further complicates the scenario by substantially reducing visibility, adding another layer of hazard for drivers.
Coordination with various agencies, including the U.S. Forest Service and the Arizona Department of Public Safety, is key to making informed decisions about highway closures. According to Davila, if predictions show a fire impacting a major thoroughfare like Interstate 17 within an hour, the call for closures is immediate, aimed at clearing the roads and ensuring safety. "Safety drives these decisions," Rupp reiterated. And while the ADOT advises patience and preparation for unexpected delays, they also advocate for preventative measures. Motorists are urged to avoid igniting wildfires by not parking on dry grass, disposing of cigarettes properly, securing trailer chains, and checking tire pressure before traveling.
ADOT also recommends being equipped with emergency supplies, including water, snacks, and sun protection, to prepare for any eventual delays. In case of highway back-ups due to incidents, they suggest staying in your lane and not exiting the vehicle. "Give crews room to get by," Rupp said, highlighting the need to facilitate quicker response and resolution times to safely reopen roads for everyone's benefit.
