Wildfire:The 55 Fire

[Dschur]

Wildfire:The 55 Fire
Firefighters are working to contain a large fire located NNW of the town of Springerville tonight. The fire started around 2 PM this afternoon and is currently 4400 acres. The fire started along the north side of Hwy 60 the cause is yet unknown and will be investigated.

Burning in grassland and shrub, weather conditions are inhibiting firefighting efforts with winds from the southwest at 15-20 mph. and have since moderated


There are two structures approximately 1 mile to the northeast of this Incident and resources are implementing structure protection measures including the use of a helicopter and bucket. One residence is occupied, one is vacant.

APS powerlines are also in the path of the fire, however, resources hope to use County Road 4365 to stop the forward progression and protect the powerlines. Loss of power to these lines is not anticipated.

Current resources on this fire include 14 engines and water tenders from the surrounding Fire Departments, including Springerville, Vernon, Eagar, St. Johns, Concho, Greer and Show Low Fire Departments as well as Forest Service personnel. Estimated 60 – 100 personnel.

Motorists are advised to exercise extreme caution within the vicinity of this fire due to the presence of multiple emergency response vehicles.

[azbackpackr]

I saw the smoke from this when I was driving the school bus yesterday in Springerville. Today I will be driving the bus along 60 to Show Low, so I will see the "damage." It really isn't damage when it's grasslands, though. It is good for it. It will green up dramatically by midsummer, and will be greener than the surrounding area.