Arizona Governor Doug Ducey declared a State of Emergency on Thursday, as a wildfire spears throughout the northern portion of the state.
According to Ducey’s office, the flames have ignited more than 19,000 acres and forced 750 households in the area to evacuate. More than 260 firefighters and emergency response personnel have responded to the incident.
“Our team is on the ground working with first responders to monitor the Tunnel Fire in Coconino County,” said Governor Ducey. “As strong winds fuel fires across Arizona, we are doing everything we can to keep Arizonans safe. We pray for the safety of the responders and firefighters in Northern Arizona, and are thankful for their dedication to protecting the lives, pets and property of Arizonans. Our prayers are with the residents affected by the fire and we encourage everyone in the area to follow the guidance of fire officials, stay safe and respond to any evacuation notices. We will continue to monitor the situation and deploy additional resources as necessary.”
The language of the State of Emergency detailed that $200,000 from the general funds will be sent to the Arizona Division of Emergency Management to combat the destruction. Additionally, the order directs state and local government officials to coordinate a response.
An update from the U.S. Forest Service explained that three percent of the fire has been contained.
“Though welcome rain fell this morning across many parts of the fire, strong winds forecast today and shifting winds out of the north and east forecast for Saturday and Sunday are still a major concern for fire managers. The fire is currently 21,087 acres and three percent contained. Fire managers are hesitant to call certain areas contained until these wind events pass,” the release explained.
The cause of the fire is under investigation.
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Cooper Moran is a reporter for The Arizona Sun Times and The Star News Network. Email tips to [email protected].
