Flagstaff Confronts Wildfire and Flood Emergencies for the First Time

The threat of catastrophic wildfires and subsequent flooding looms large over the west side of the San Francisco Peaks, according to two recent studies presented to the Coconino County Board of Supervisors. The studies by J.E. Fuller Hydrology and Northern Arizona University paint a grim picture, with potential flooding impacting 2,000 structures and causing $2.8 billion in damage and lost wages following a major wildfire in the Upper Rio De Flag Watershed.

In response to this alarming forecast, a grassroots community group called Flagstaff First has emerged. The group was formed almost a year ago by flood-impacted residents of Flagstaff who sought to improve the city’s preparedness for the ongoing threats of wildfires and flooding. Their goal is to shift city fire and flood planning from reactive to proactive measures.

Flagstaff First has submitted a citizen petition to the Flagstaff City Council, urging them to include wildfire, flooding, and drought as top priorities in the Carbon Neutrality Plan (CNP). The petition highlights the urgent need for specific goals and strategies to address prevention, detection, and suppression of wildfires, mitigation of flooding, and preparation for drought.

While some may argue that the CNP already prioritizes wildfire, flooding, and drought, Flagstaff First contends that the plan lacks a comprehensive integrated program to address these critical climate adaptation issues. By advocating for the inclusion of these priorities in the CNP, Flagstaff First aims to restore a balance between climate mitigation and adaptation to better protect the community from imminent threats.