Wildfire Threatens Eastern Arizona, Evacuation Orders Issued
A significant wildfire threat has emerged in eastern Arizona, prompting evacuation orders for specific areas. The Apache County Sheriff’s office has directed residents of Greer and the North Woods and South Fork regions to evacuate due to a rapidly spreading wildfire fueled by strong winds and arid conditions.
The blaze, known as the Greer Fire, ignited on private land and is being propelled by wind gusts reaching up to 50 miles per hour. By Tuesday afternoon, the fire had expanded to cover 3,659 acres. Firefighting efforts are underway, with crews from the Apache-Sitgreaves National Forests deploying air tankers and personnel to combat the flames.
Numerous structures have already succumbed to the fire, with additional buildings at risk as the situation progresses. Residents situated west of River Road in Eagar have been advised to prepare for potential evacuation as the area is now on Set pre-evacuation alert.
The situation has also led to road closures by the Arizona Department of Transportation. State Route 260 is currently shut in both directions between mileposts 385 and 393, as is State Route 373 southbound from mileposts 385 to 390 leading into Greer. The reopening of these roads remains uncertain.
For those evacuated, the Round Valley High School Dome in Eagar at 555 N. Butler St. is available as a shelter, while RVs and large animals can be accommodated at the Round Valley Rodeo Grounds. Additionally, the Alpine Community Center is open to assist evacuees and can be contacted at (928) 245-1118.
In response to the escalating fire threat, the mayors of Eagar and Springerville have declared an emergency declaration prohibiting all outdoor burning and smoking. This declaration also restricts access to public buildings and streets if further evacuation orders are issued.
Weather forecasts indicate that the high winds are expected to subside overnight, potentially leading to a calmer environment on Wednesday.
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