FREDONIA, AZ – The Town of Fredonia has declared a state of local emergency in response to the escalating Dragon Bravo Fire, which has now been confirmed as the largest wildfire currently burning in the United States. The blaze has scorched over 123,000 acres, is only 12% contained, and has been officially classified as a “megafire” by the U.S. Forest Service, a term for fires exceeding 100,000 acres.
The emergency declaration, signed by Mayor Don Johnson and Town Clerk Tracy Stumpf, was prompted by the fire’s immediate threat to the community, severe disruptions to critical services, and it’s devastating economic impact. The Dragon Bravo Fire, along with the White Sage Fire, was sparked by lightning strikes on the Kaibab National Forest and has grown rapidly due to what the declaration calls “long-standing mismanagement… including excessive fuel loads.”
The fire has had a catastrophic effect on the region, destroying at least 70 structures, including the historic Grand Canyon Lodge and the North Rim Visitor Center. The North Rim of Grand Canyon National Park has been closed for the remainder of the 2025 season due to the extensive damage. The fire’s impact is also being felt economically in Fredonia, with the closure of critical transportation routes and supply chain disruptions affecting local businesses.
In addition to the immediate threats, the declaration highlights the long-term consequences of the fire. Tourism, a major economic driver for the area, is expected to see a “drastic decline.” The fire has also displaced local ranchers’ livestock and destroyed the habitat of indigenous wildlife, including the rare Kaibab squirrel, which is found only in this region.
To keep residents informed and address concerns, a community meeting for the Dragon Bravo Fire will be held on Tuesday, August 5th, at 6 p.m. at Fredonia High School, located at 221 East Hortt Street. The meeting will also be streamed live on the “2025 Dragon Bravo Fire Information” Facebook page, with ASL interpretation and live captioning available.
The emergency declaration mobilizes all available local, state, and national resources to help mitigate the fire’s immediate threats and to develop long-term wildfire prevention and recovery strategies. The public is urged to stay vigilant and follow all official information regarding the progress of the fire and any potential evacuation orders.
