Evacuations have been ordered for northern Arizona communities due to the Tinder Fire burning near Happy Jack.
According to Coconino County officials, evacuations were ordered Sunday by the Coconino County Sheriff's Office for affected communities north, east and west of Highway 87 including Moqui Ranchettes, all of Starlight Pines, Clear Creek (except 1 and 2), all of Timber Ranch, all of Tamarron, Pine Canyon, Blue Ridge Estates, Ponderosa Pines, and Mogollon Ranches.
The evacuation will be in effect until further notice, deputies will stay in the area to provide 24-hour security.
The fire has burned an estimated 8,000 acres and is burning 1.5 miles northeast of Blue Ridge Reservoir. Structures have also been lost in the fire, according to InciWeb.
NEW: Officials tell me #TinderFire had "rapid, significant" growth today. Well past 500 acres. Won't know exact number until survey flight tomorrow. High winds, dry fuel & topography are biggest challenges for crews @abc15
— John Genovese (@JEGenovese) April 29, 2018
According to fire officials, approximately 500 personnel including seven hotshot crews are fighting the blaze.
The cause of the fire is unknown at this time.
An evacuation site has been set up at Twin Arrows Navajo Casino Resort, 22181 Resort Blvd, Flagstaff, AZ 86004. Small animals are being evacuated to this site. The original site was at Winslow Junior High but was later moved due to smoke in the area.
County officials say large animals are being accepted at the Holbrook Navajo County Fairgrounds.
Residents with questions on the evacuations are asked to call 928-679-8393.
UPDATE: SR 87 NB/SB south of Winslow near Clints Well. Road is closed for the Tinder Fire from MP 290-312. This looking north near Clints Well. #aztraffic pic.twitter.com/gotYjefQcO
— Arizona DOT (@ArizonaDOT) April 29, 2018
Detours have been issued for SR 87 near the evacuation zone.
DETOUR for SR 87 closure at MP 290-312: Take I-17 NB to I-40 EB. #aztraffic pic.twitter.com/cmdoMg70ho
— Arizona DOT (@ArizonaDOT) April 29, 2018
