Residents in parts of Arizona were forced to evacuate on Sunday as firefighters battled multiple wildfires across the state amidst extreme temperatures that have persisted for weeks. Approximately 160 residents were ordered to evacuate from the Sunflower area in Maricopa County as a wildfire burned in the Tonto National Forest. Deputies were evacuating residents and directing them to the town of Fountain Hills, where an evacuation center had been set up.
According to Maricopa County Sheriff’s Office Sgt. Joaquin Enriquez, the fire was currently burning in place and crews would continue to monitor and fight the fire overnight. Additional firefighting efforts were planned for the morning. Sunflower is located about 58 miles northeast of Phoenix, which experienced 24 consecutive days of temperatures at or above 110 degrees. On Sunday, the city reached a high of 114 degrees.
In Yavapai County, over 100 miles away, where six active wildfires were burning, residents of the community of Cherry were also ordered to evacuate. The Yavapai County Sheriff’s Office issued a “go message” to residents, stating that the RACETRACK Fire was threatening the area. A special weather statement was in effect for parts of Yavapai County, warning of wind gusts up to 50 mph and advising residents to expect wind shifts for the Grapevine and Race Track fires.
These wildfires come as Arizona continues to battle extreme heat, with excessive heat warnings in place across central and southern parts of the state. Maricopa County has already recorded at least 18 confirmed heat-related deaths this year, with an additional 69 cases under investigation, according to data from the Maricopa County Department of Public Health. The scorching temperatures have also put a strain on hospitals in the county as more people seek treatment for heat-related illnesses.
Maricopa County, where Phoenix is located, is the fourth largest county in the United States in terms of population size. The National Weather Service reported that at least 44 million people were under heat advisories and excessive heat warnings on Sunday across the desert Southwest, Intermountain West, South Texas, and South Florida. Over two dozen temperature records were either set or tied on Saturday in various cities across Arizona, California, Florida, Idaho, Montana, Nevada, Puerto Rico, and Texas.
CNN Meteorologist Gene Norman contributed to this report.
How are firefighters working to contain and extinguish the wildfires in the Tonto National Forest and the Patagonia area?
To work throughout the night to contain and extinguish it. The fire in the Tonto National Forest had already consumed more than 2,000 acres.
Meanwhile, another wildfire was raging in southern Arizona, forcing the evacuation of about 100 residents in the Patagonia area. The fire had grown to over 3,000 acres and was spreading rapidly due to strong winds and dry conditions.
Firefighters from multiple agencies were battling both blazes, using air tankers, helicopters, and ground crews. However, the extreme heat, with temperatures well above 100 degrees Fahrenheit, made the firefighting efforts even more challenging.
According to the National Weather Service, the heatwave in Arizona was part of a larger pattern affecting the western United States. Multiple heat advisories and excessive heat warnings were in place across several states, including Arizona, California, Nevada, and Utah.
The prolonged heatwave had not only increased the risk of wildfires but also posed a threat to public health. Authorities advised residents to stay indoors, stay hydrated, and take precautions to avoid heat-related illnesses.
In addition to the wildfires, the scorching temperatures also had an impact on Arizona’s power grid. The excessive electricity demand caused by the widespread use of air conditioning led to rolling blackouts in some areas.
As the fires raged on, officials urged residents in affected areas to heed evacuation orders and stay updated on the latest information from authorities. The safety of residents and firefighters remained a top priority as they worked tirelessly to contain the wildfires and protect communities.
With no relief from the heatwave in sight, firefighters and residents in Arizona remained on high alert, prepared for any additional fires that might break out. The ongoing drought conditions and dry vegetation only heightened the risk of further fire outbreaks, underlining the need for continued vigilance and preparedness throughout the state.
The devastating wildfires in Arizona coupled with extreme heat are a harsh reminder of the urgent need to address climate change. Thoughts and prayers for the safety of those impacted and gratitude for the brave firefighters working tirelessly to contain the inferno. Stay safe, Arizona. 🙏🔥