Wildfire Tears Through 980 Acres In Arizona, Remains Uncontained

ARIZONA — A wildfire south of Buckeye has grown to about 980 acres and remains uncontained Monday morning, with crews battling wind-driven flames in the Gila River bottom, fire officials said.

The Hazen Fire was first reported around 3 p.m. Saturday near Hazen and Rooks roads, about a mile east of State Route 85 and just south of MC 85.

Overnight, the fire pushed an estimated half mile to a mile north and northeast, burning through dense salt cedar in the Gila River bottom.

Crews said they saw some progress Sunday. A burnout operation along State Route 85 was successful, and the fire is continuing to hold on its west side.

However, wind gusts up to 30 mph pushed the fire northeast overnight, creating spotting challenges on the north and northeast flanks that continued through the night.

Fighting fire in salt cedar is especially difficult because the dense, tangled vegetation limits access for firefighters and equipment, holds a heavy load of dead branches and fine fuels, and burns hot, producing thick, dark smoke.

Gusty winds can also carry embers ahead of the main fire, allowing it to jump containment lines, fire officials said.

No evacuation orders have been issued. Officials noted that some residents may choose to leave on their own based on personal comfort level.

Evacuation orders are issued by the Maricopa County Sheriff's Office.

No injuries or structural damage have been reported as of Monday morning, fire officials said.

According to the Arizona Department of Transportation, all roads in the area are open as of Monday morning. Drivers can check current road conditions at AZ511.com.

A temporary flight restriction is in effect over the fire area. All aircraft, including drones, not assigned to fire suppression are prohibited.

Unauthorized aircraft will force firefighting planes and helicopters to the ground, delaying suppression efforts.

Residents who have not signed up for Maricopa County emergency notifications can do so at maricopa.gov/1755/Emergency-Notifications.

The cause of the fire remains under investigation.