Tohono O'odham Nation Office of Emergency Management

09/12/2022

NWS is reporting multiple severe thunderstorms occurring in and around Tucson and North. Impacts may also occur on the Nation throughout the evening in particular on or near the Nation’s Northern and Eastern Boundaries. Weather service is describing excessive Hail up to one inch, significant winds and heavy rainfall all confirmed by radar, as storms continue to develop sporadically. Please have staff aware of potential road closures and possible power outages that may require additional personnel.

09/06/2022

⚠️ Plan for nighttime ramp closures on southbound Interstate 19 at San Xavier Road Sept. 6 and 7 (8 p.m to 6 a.m.) ⚠️

If you are experiencing an emergency please call 911 immediately!

08/24/2022

🚨 Tuesday, August 23, 2022 7:55 pm

Power outage effecting San Xavier, Mission View, and Desert Diamond Tucson. TOUA is enroute, however, there is no estimated time of restoration, your patience is greatly appreciated. 🚨

08/19/2022

The TON - Department of Public Safety in partnership with the TON Solid Waste Management program will be providing free sandbags for members who may need to protect areas of their homes from storm runoff. In order to accommodate as many members as possible there is a limit of 10 sandbags per household.

As always, IN THE EVENT OF AN EMERGENCY CALL 911!

07/28/2022

The Tohono O'odham Nation Department of Public Safety has several positions open.
Applicants must pass background investigation.
Applicants for Corrections Officer, & Police Officer must pass a medical examination.

For more information please feel free to contact any of the programs or the Tohono O'odham Nation Human Resources at 520.383.6540
www.tonation-nsn.gov/employment

07/28/2022

Each year, more deaths occur due to flooding than from any other thunderstorm related hazard. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention report that over half of all flood-related drownings occur when a vehicle is driven into hazardous flood water. The next highest percentage of flood-related deaths is due to walking into or near flood waters. People underestimate the force and power of water. Many of the deaths occur in cars swept downstream. Many of these drownings are preventable. Never drive around the barriers blocking a flooded road. The road may have collapsed under that water. A mere 6 inches of fast-moving flood water can knock over an adult. It takes just 12 inches of rushing water to carry away most cars and just 2 feet of rushing water can carry away SUVs and trucks. It is NEVER safe to drive or walk into flood waters.

https://www.weather.gov/safety/flood-turn-around-dont-drown

07/27/2022

NEVER drive or walk into floodwaters. It is impossible to know how deep the water is just by looking at it. Turn Around Don’t Drown!

https://www.weather.gov/safety/flood-turn-around-dont-drown

07/18/2022

Monday, July 18, 2022:

Moderate Monsoon Risk for today across central Pima and Santa Cruz Counties, including the Tohono O’odham Nation. Minor or Little Monsoon Risk elsewhere across southeastern Arizona.

The stronger storms will be capable of dangerous cloud to ground lightning, strong winds, hail, and heavy rain.

06/28/2022

Tuesday, June 28, 2022:

REMINDER:

Due to time sensitivity, weather alerts will now be posted to Facebook Stories. Weather alerts include, inclement weather alerts, flash flood watches/warnings, thunderstorm watches/warnings, etc.
To view Facebook Stories, you can click on the Tohono O'odham Nation Office of Emergency Management profile picture, a blue ring indicates that a new story has been posted. Or, you can view stories from your homepage under the stories section. Please see included pictures for examples.

You can also find weather updates on Instagram Stories on the Office of Emergency Management Instagram page (ton_oem).

06/23/2022

06/22/2022

Wednesday, June 22, 2022

PSA Pan Tak Evacuation Orders Lifted

On June 17, 2022 the Eastern Area Incident Management Team issued evacuation orders for the Pan Tak Community in the Schuk Toak District due to the Contreras Fire.

Using the Ready (Be aware of fires in the area), Set (Get prepared for evacuation), Go (Evacuate) model, the community was moved to a “Set” status on Sunday, June 19, 2022 and the community
was given the option to return home. Later in the evening on the same day, the community was put back in “Go” status due to winds in the area pushing the fire north and east towards the community.

Thanks to all of the hard work conducted by the firefighters, incident management team, several inter-agencies, internal and external stakeholders, and countless others, evacuation orders were
lifted on Wednesday, June 22, 2022, and the Pan Tak Community was cleared to return to their homes with no restrictions.

EDIT: Post was edited on 6/23/2022 to correct dates, photo was also replaced to reflect corrected dates.

06/22/2022

Wednesday, June 22, 2022

PSA Contreras Fire Daily Update

06/22/2022

06/21/2022

Tuesday, June 21, 2022:

Contreras Update

06/20/2022

06/20/2022

Sunday, June 19, 2022 9:38 PM:

🚨Drivers traveling through the Kitt Peak area on State Route 86 are asked to CONTINUE THROUGH THE AREA WITHOUT STOPPING. We understand that individuals want to take pictures of the fire, however stopping to do so is creating a hazard.

Please continue through the area as safely as you can. 🚨

06/19/2022

06/19/2022

Saturday, June 18, 2022

06/19/2022

Saturday, June 18, 2022:

Please see the Operational Briefing from Saturday morning discussing some of the efforts going on with the Contreras Fire.

06/18/2022

Update on Contreras Fire June 17, 2022

06/18/2022

Friday, June 17, 2022:

The Office of Emergency Management has not approved any monetary fundraisers at this time.

Once more information is known about the Contreras fire and how it will affect the community currently under evacuation orders, any fundraising will be coordinated with the Schuk Toak District and the effected community directly.

We thank everyone for their patience, understanding, and eagerness to help. We will keep everyone updated on ways they can help in the coming days.

06/17/2022

Friday, June 17, 2022

PSA Public Safety Advisory (Updated 06172022)

PUBLIC SAFETY ADVISORY
(NUMBER CHANGE WITH ADDITIONAL NUMBERS)

In the event of hard line phone outages resulting from phone service interruptions related to the Contreras Fire, the Tohono O’odham Police Department wants members to be aware that the following cellular phone numbers will be in operation for those needing to contact the Tohono O’odham Police Department Emergency Dispatch.

FOR MAIN NATION:

520-993-9495

520-419-6044

FOR SAN XAVIER ONLY:

520-993-9282

We anticipate that there could be a larger than normal volume of calls coming into Police Dispatch so we ask for your patience should this activation take place.

For San Xavier District specific calls, TOPD has located a radio dispatcher in San Xavier to reduce the call volume and waiting time for main dispatch cell lines in Sells.

TOPD appreciates your patience during this emergency event.

06/17/2022

Friday, June 17, 2022:

PSA Pan Tak Evacuation Orders

Due to the on-going Contreras Fire and its proximity to the Pan Tak Community in the Schuk Toak District an Evacuation Order was issued for the community members residing there. Community members are encouraged to evacuate the area to the Sells Recreation Center where shelter operations have been activated.

Community members should bring with them:
• Clothing
• Medication
• If easily transported, necessary medical equipment
• Important documents (birth certificates, social security cards, etc.)
• Domestic pets (dogs, cats)
• Other personal belonging as needed

The shelter is currently being managed by the Office of Emergency Management and Dept. of Health and Human Services, with assistance from the Education Department, Natural Resources Department, and American Red Cross.

06/17/2022

Friday, June 17, 2022:

Contreras Fire Update

06/16/2022

Thursday, June 16, 2022

PSA Contreras Fire Update 06162022

06/16/2022

Update on Contreras Fire June 16, 2022

06/16/2022

Thursday, June 15, 2022

PSA Contreras Fire: Wildlife

Just like people, wildfires also impact wildlife. Wild animals have developed strategies to fly, run or bury themselves to escape from fires, the change in habitat and food resource will drive them to find safety.

Communities surrounding the active fire may see an increase in wildlife activity as animals search for safety.

Drivers and individuals traveling on Highway 86 in the Kitt Peak area between milepost 140 (Coyote Store) and milepost 126 (Tohono O'odham Community College), should expect to see an increase in wildlife presence on roadways and should proceed with caution in areas surrounding the active fire.

How can you help?
-Do no feed animals. Feeding wildlife does more harm than good, and can create dependence on humans. Wild animals can find food on their own, even in severe conditions.
-Let them rest. If wild animals are fleeing a fire, they will already be scared and tired. Don't scare them, and allow them to pass through the area.
-Keep pets safe. Keep pets on a leash or inside the home to avoid conflicts.
-Drive carefully. Be aware of animals crossing.
-Drive carefully

For questions about wildlife or if you find injured wildlife, please contact the Tohono O'odham Nation Wildlife & Vegetation Office at (520) 383-1513.

06/16/2022

PSA Contreras Wildfire Air Quality and Health Effects

06/16/2022

Wednesday, June 15, 2022

PSA Contreras Fire Update

06/14/2022

Tuesday, June 14, 2022

PSA Contreras Fire Update 06142022

06/14/2022

Monday, June 16, 2022:

PSA Monsoon Awareness Week

June 12-17, 2022 is Monsoon Awareness Week

The Monsoon season usually starts around June 15 and runs through September 30 every year. In North America, the Monsoon impacts Arizona, New Mexico, Nevada, Utah, Colorado, Texas, and California.

Monsoon Hazards include Heat, Fire Weather, Downburst Winds, Dust Storms, Lightning, and Flash Flooding.

The Office of Emergency Management will be posting information each of these hazards throughout the week.

06/13/2022

Monday, June 13, 2022:

PSA Contreras Wildfire Update

The Contreras Fire started on June 11 on a remote ridge of the Baboquivari Mountain range, north of the Baboquivari Peak, 20 miles east of Sells, Arizona on the Tohono O'odham Indian Reservation. It is approximately 80 acres, burning grass and brush in steep and rugged terrain that is difficult for firefighters to access.

BIA Papago Agency plans to transfer command of the fire to the Southeast Zone Incident Management Team 3 the evening of June 13.

06/09/2022

Heat Related Illness - Symptoms and what to do

Heat Exhaustion Symptoms: Faint or dizzy; excessive sweating; cool, pale, clammy skin; nausea or vomiting; rapid, weak pulse; muscle cramps

Heat Exhaustion What to do: Move to a cooler area; loosen clothing; sip cool water; seek medical help if symptoms don't improve; heat exhaustion can lead to heat stroke.

Heat Stroke Symptoms: Throbbing headache; no sweating; body temperature above 103; red, hot, dry skin; nausea or vomiting; rapid, strong pulse; may lose consciousness.

Heat Stroke What to do: CALL 911!; move person to a cooler area; loosen clothing and remove extra layers; cool with water or ice; heat stroke can cause death or permanent disability if emergency treatment is not given.

Stay cool, stay hydrated, stay informed!

06/08/2022

Wednesday, June 8, 2022 9 AM:

PSA Summer Heat Safety

Extreme Heat causes more deaths each year than hurricanes, lightning, tornadoes, earthquakes, and floods combined.

Don't get caught unprepared!
-Avoid outdoor activities during the hottest part of the day.
-Learn to recognize heat illness. Heat stroke is an emergency CALL 911!
-Drink PLENTY of water!
-Eat and Dress light.
-Take frequent breaks in A/C.
-Never leave a child or pet in the car for ANY period of time.

Know the Symptoms:
Heat exhaustion symptoms: include dizziness, thirst, heavy sweating, nausea, weakness.

What to do for heat exhaustion: Move to a cooler area, loosen clothing, sip cool water, seek medical help if symptoms don't improve.

Heat Exhaustion can lead to heat stroke.

Heat stroke symptoms: include confusion, dizziness, individual become unconscious.

What to do for heat stroke: Move person to a cooler area, loosen clothing and remove extra layers, cool with water or ice.

Heat Stroke can cause death or permanent disability if emergency treatment is not given.

IN THE EVENT OF AN EMERGENCY ALWAYS CALL 911!

06/07/2022

Tuesday, June 7, 2022 3:21 PM:

PSA Excessive Heat Watch

The National Weather Service Tucson has issued an Excessive Heat Watch in effect from Thursday, June 9, 2022 through Sunday, June 12, 2022.

Expected heat is NOT typical desert heat. Individuals can expect 4 straight days of extreme heat with no significant cooldown overnight.

05/16/2022

Monday, May 16, 2022:

The Office of Emergency Management currently has a position open for a Training and Exercise Coordinator.

The Training and Exercise Coordinator, coordinates the training and emergency exercise program in accordance to tribal, state and federal requirements; assists the planning, directing, evaluating and administration of training and emergency exercise programs that test the emergency management and disaster preparedness plans for the Tohono O'odham Nation.

Please see the job description for more information about the position and its qualifications.

The closing date to apply for this position is May 27, 2022.

Applications can be submitted in-person or online. Please contact the Tohono O'odham Nation Human Resources Office for more information about the application process.

http://www.tonation-nsn.gov/employment/

04/21/2022

Sells District is advising that due to an emergent incident the Sells Shell Convenience Store will be CLOSED.

Please see the post from Sells District for more information.

04/12/2022

PSA: Early Flying from Luke AFB

On Thursday, April 14th, 2022 the 56th Fighter Wing, from Luke Air Force Base, is scheduled to participate in early-morning operations.

Aircraft is expected to depart Luke AFB near 3 a.m., in which aircraft noise should be expected near and/or on the Tohono O'odham Nation.

For more information please see the following Media Advisory from Luke Air Force Base.

04/12/2022

UPDATE 1:10PM:

Roadway is currently open to one lane, with alternating eastbound and westbound traffic. Drivers should use caution when approaching the area and wait for law enforcement to provide directions.

🚨🚨Tuesday, April 12, 2022 12:15 PM:🚨🚨

The Tohono O’odham Police Department is reporting a vehicle accident on Highway 86 near milepost 105 (west of Sells).

Both eastbound and westbound traffic lanes are closed at this time, it is unknown how long lanes will be closed.

03/21/2022

Monday, March 21, 2022:

Don't forget to stop by and get a FREE Bear Beans Drink and Pastry when you get your COVID Vaccination or Booster shot.

Tuesday, March 22, 2022
7:00 AM to 11:00 AM

The Tucson Indian Center will also be providing gift cards to individuals who receive their COVID Vaccination or Booster shot at the event.

(gifts cards and drinks will be available while supplies last)

We are happy to be partnering with Tohono O'odham Nation for their Vaccination & Caffeination event! 💉☕️We will also be open to the public! Can't wait to be back in Sells, please share & stop by 🙌🐻💙☕️

We encourage the health & safety of our communities as we progress through this pandemic. We also respect each person's choice to vaccinate or not. Stay safe....and caffeinated 👍🏼

03/18/2022

Friday, March 18, 2022:

Are you ready to return to the workplace?

Don't Hesitate, Get Vaccinated, AND Caffeinated!

Tuesday, March 22, 2022
7:00 AM to 11:00 AM
Basha's Plaza, Sells, Arizona

FREE Coffee and Pastry from Bear Beans Coffee & Bakery, and $50 gift card from the Tucson Indian Center will be provided to individuals who receive a COVID-19 vaccination or booster the day of.
(while supplies last)

03/16/2022

Tuesday, March 15, 2022:

COVID-19 Vaccination POD

Friday, March 18, 2022
Basha's Plaza, Sells, Arizona
2:00 PM to 6:00 PM

$50.00 gift cards for individuals who receive a COVID-19 vaccination or booster the day of the event. (while supplies last)

Sponsored by the Tucson Indian Center and the Tohono O'odham Nation Unified Command

03/10/2022

Thursday, March 10, 2022:

COVID-19 Vaccination POD
Saturday, March 12, 2022
Basha's Plaza, Sells, AZ
09:00 AM to 12:00 PM

$50.00 Gift Cards for individuals who receive a COVID-19 vaccination or booster the day of the event. (while supplies last)

This event is sponsored by the Tucson Indian Center and the Tohono O'odham Nation Unified Command