Update: July 9, 2025

Dear Relatives,

We greet you with continued gratitude as the Oak Ridge Fire enters a new phase—one of deeper containment, continued vigilance, and ongoing care for our communities and land.

As of this morning, the fire remains at 87% containment, with crews focusing on securing the fire’s edge and responding swiftly to any interior heat or flare-ups. This steady progress reflects the strength, discipline, and dedication of all who continue to walk this line.

Fire Status (as of July 9, 2025)

• Acreage Burned: 11,027 acres
• Containment: 87%
• Personnel: 60 (Type 3 team transition)
• Fire Behavior: Smoldering in interior pockets; low flames (3–5 inches) with isolated tree torching
• Weather Conditions: Hot and dry, with continued fire weather concerns due to low humidity and dry vegetation

While the fire’s footprint remains stable, dry weather and fuel conditions continue to pose a high wildfire risk across the region. Please continue to exercise caution during all outdoor activities.

Evacuation & Reentry Status
Effective 8:00 AM on July 8, all evacuation orders across all zones have been lifted. Residents may safely return to their homes.

For livestock owners: If your animals are sheltering at the Dean C. Jackson Memorial Arena in Window Rock, please coordinate their pickup and return with the Navajo Nation Department of Agriculture via DNR Central Dispatch. Transportation support and aftercare consultation are available through the Department of Agriculture and the Department of Resource Enforcement.

Donations Update
At this time, no donations of any kind are needed. We thank you deeply for your generosity and care throughout this time.

A Word of Thanks
To the fire crews, tribal departments, chapter leaders, volunteers, and every relative who has stood with us: thank you. Your steadfast presence is a blessing. You have helped carry us through a time of fire and uncertainty with wisdom, prayer, and love.

A Prayer for Endurance and Return

O Creator of earth and flame,
We thank you for the hands that hold the line,
For the rains still to come, and the lives that return.
Bring peace to scorched ground, and calm to our hearts.
Let strength rise in our people like the dawn.
May we walk gently now, with care for all that breathes.

Amen.

We will continue to share updates as they become available. Until then, may you remain safe, grounded, and connected.

With love and gratitude,
Office of Communications
The Episcopal Church in Navajoland