ByMore than 500 homes are under threat from the rapidly expanding Tinder Fire in Arizona, which exploded from 500 to 8,000 acres in the span of a few hours on Sunday. The fire grew to more than 8,600 acres on Monday and is 0 percent contained as of 3:30 p.m. local time, according to InciWeb.
The wind-driven blaze, which originated on April 27 about 1.5 miles northeast of the Blue Ridge Reservoir in Coconino County, has triggered a number of evacuations and road closures in nearby local communities, according to InciWeb.
All communities north, east and west of Highway 87 were ordered to evacuate, according to the Coconino County Sheriff's Office.
The Tinder Fire continues to expand in Cococino County, Arizona, threatening more than 500 homes. (Photo/Arizona Department of Transportation via United States Forest Service)
No injuries were reported as of 5 a.m. local time, but some structures have been lost, according to InciWeb. Officials have yet to release information on exactly how many structures were impacted as they continue to assess damage.
Coconino County health officials are urging people in the fire's vicinity, particularly those with preexisting health conditions, to take precautions against inhaling wildfire smoke.
High winds contributing to the fire's growth will likely continue to exacerbate containment efforts for the more than 500 personnel working to contain the blaze.
If you are in the #TinderFire evacuation zone, please listen closely and follow law enforcement and first responders during this evacuation. Stay safe and contact 928-679-8393 with questions. Folks are encouraged to head to a safe area or to Twin Arrows. #AZ01
"Monday will be a bad day, as the winds will be frequently blowing past 15-25 mph, with higher gusts," said AccuWeather Meteorologist Evan Duffey.
"These winds will generally continue into Tuesday before calming down somewhat on Wednesday into the remainder of the week," Duffey said.
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Because the wind direction will remain rather steady over the next few days, this will not be the worst-case scenario, as fire spread should be more predictable than it would be with changing wind directions, according to Duffey.
"Some precipitation will attempt to move into the region as early as Tuesday night," said Duffey. "While it should be light, rising dew points will help to subdue fire activity, especially overnight."
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