Tankers and helicopters are battling the fire
PHOENIX (AP) — A wildfire in the Tonto National Forest northeast of Phoenix has charred about 14 square miles (36 square kilometers) with no containment yet, authorities said Sunday.
Forest officials said the wildfire is burning in grass and brush and its cause remains under investigation.
No injuries or structure damage has been reported, but Forest Service officials said the Humboldt Lookout and FAA communication equipment are threatened.
Fire officials on Sunday were able to access the area around Sears Kay Ranch to conduct damage assessments and said three homes, five outbuildings/sheds and several vehicles have been destroyed.
Some residents have evacuated summer homes as crews continue to set backfires to help protect structures and other assets near Cave Creek.
Several airtankers and helicopters are dumping retardant and water on the blaze, which prompted the temporary closure of U.S. Interstate 17 about 80 miles (128 kilometers) north of Phoenix after it was reported at about 2:30 Friday.
All contents © copyright 2020 The Associated Press. All rights reserved.
