Heavy monsoon storms prompt reduction or removal of most fire restrictions in northern Arizona

After a series of heavy storms swept through Flagstaff and the surrounding region in the past week — delivering possible record volumes of rain to some areas — federal, state, and local land managers announced the lifting or easing of most fire restrictions.

The Kaibab National Forest rescinded all fire restrictions effective Saturday. Grand Canyon National Park announced Sunday that the South Rim was shifting from Stage 2 to less restrictive Stage 1 restrictions. (Stage 2 restrictions remain in effect on the North Rim.) The Coconino National Forest, Arizona Department of Forestry and Fire Management, Coconino County and City of Flagstaff rescinded all fire restrictions effective Monday morning.