NASA image: Slide Fire update May 23, 2014

The Slide Fire is located in Oak Creek Canyon just north of Slide Rock State Park and burning northward, up the canyon into places such as West Fork and Harding Point. Currently it has burned 7,500 acres and is 5% contained. The fire originated just about 4 to 5 miles north of Sedona, just north of Slide Rock State Park on May 20, and was human caused. Investigations regarding the cause are ongoing.

Crews made good progress overnight conducting burnout operations along the north and east flanks of the fire. Several small spot fires were contained through the evening hours. Additional burnout operations were conducted starting near the upper canyon 'switchbacks.'

Three hundred structures, including private homes, vacation resort cabins, and a Forest Service lookout tower, are in the threat zone of the fire. No injuries have been reported.

Approximately 840 personnel including 15 hotshot crews, 33 engines, three air tankers, five helicopters, two air attack, and other resources have been dispatched to fight this fire. The fire crews have been dealing with steep slopes, canyon, and very difficult terrain in their efforts to eradicate this fire. Evacuations remain in place in Oak Creek Canyon from Slide Rock State Park to Sterling Springs Hatchery. Coconino County issued a pre-evacuation notice to residents of Kachina Village and Forest Highlands subdivisions. Residents are advised to be prepared to evacuate.