Dragon Bravo Fire grows nearly 10,000 acres overnight in extreme fire conditions

COCONINO COUNTY, Ariz. (ABC4) — The Dragon Bravo Fire, situated at Grand Canyon National Park’s North Rim, grew nearly 10,000 acres overnight amid critical fire weather conditions, according to an incident update on Sunday.

The fire jumped in acreage from 35,456 acres to 44,429 acres from Saturday to Sunday, still marked at 26% containment. Saturday reportedly marked the third consecutive day of critical fire weather at the North Rim.

The fire grew in multiple areas, officials said, including Saddle Mountain Wilderness and Milk Drainage, with spot fires identified north of Forest Service 610.

“The Dragon Bravo Fire continues back into previous fire scars near the Walhalla Plateau’s edge, southeast of the fire. Fire spread into Milk Drainage, west of the Dragon Drainage, is expected to continue under gusty southwest winds,” Sunday’s update states. “The northeastern section of the fire was the most active area, with continued spread toward Forest Road 610 and flanking fire growth in the Saddle Mountain Wilderness.”

Crews are maintaining a presence around the Kaibab Lodge and other infrastructure near the North Park Entrance, ensuring rapid response if needed. Smoke will remain visible from surrounding areas, including the South Rim of the Grand Canyon, officials said.

You can check local air quality conditions here. Information on current closures at Grand Canyon can be found here. Information on the forest closure at the North Kaibab Ranger District can be found here.

U.S. Route 98A has reopened, though State Route 67 remains closed.

This wildfire is lightning caused. There are currently 1,048 personnel assigned to the incident.