ADOT: Major Road Closure On SR-87 Near Payson Because Of Brush Fire

Michael

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Post on Jun 14, 2025

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ADOT Announces Major SR-87 Closure Near Payson Due to Wildfire

A major brush fire has forced the Arizona Department of Transportation (ADOT) to close a significant section of State Route 87 (SR-87) near Payson, causing significant travel delays and disruptions. Drivers are urged to avoid the area and seek alternative routes as firefighters battle the blaze. This closure impacts a crucial artery connecting the Phoenix metropolitan area to the scenic Payson region, a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts.

The closure, announced late [Date] afternoon, affects SR-87 between [Specific Mile Markers – e.g., milepost 238 and milepost 245]. ADOT officials state that the closure is necessary for public safety, allowing emergency vehicles access and ensuring the safety of motorists. The unpredictable nature of wildfires makes the timing of the reopening uncertain.

What We Know About the SR-87 Closure:

• Location: The closure is centered around [Specific location near Payson, if known, e.g., near the Tonto National Forest]. Be sure to check ADOT's official website for the most up-to-date information on the affected area.
• Cause: While the exact cause of the brush fire remains under investigation, dry conditions and strong winds are suspected contributing factors. The current drought in Arizona has heightened the risk of wildfires across the state.
• Current Status: As of [Time of writing], SR-87 remains closed between [Specific Mile Markers]. ADOT is closely monitoring the situation and will provide updates as they become available. Check their website frequently.
• Detours: ADOT has not yet officially announced detour routes. However, drivers are advised to use alternative routes like [Suggest alternative routes if known, e.g., US-60 or SR-260], checking traffic conditions before embarking on any journey. Navigation apps like Google Maps and Waze can be helpful in finding the optimal route, but always verify road conditions through official channels.
• Safety Precautions: Drivers are reminded to exercise caution, adhere to all traffic advisories, and avoid the area until the road reopens. The smoke from the wildfire can significantly reduce visibility, further increasing the risk of accidents.

What to Do If You're Affected:

• Check ADOT's Website: The most reliable source of information is the official Arizona Department of Transportation website ([Link to ADOT Website]). This site provides real-time updates on road closures and traffic conditions.
• Monitor News Reports: Stay updated on the wildfire's progress and the road closure status through local news channels and websites.
• Be Patient: Wildfires are unpredictable and require time to control. Patience is crucial.

Arizona Wildfire Safety Tips:

Arizona's climate makes it prone to wildfires. It's crucial to understand how to stay safe:

• Be aware of fire restrictions: Check local and state regulations before engaging in outdoor activities that could spark a fire. Many areas have burn bans in place during dry periods.
• Dispose of cigarettes properly: Never throw cigarette butts out of car windows. Extinguish them completely before disposing of them.
• Avoid using machinery during high-risk conditions: The sparks from machinery can easily ignite dry brush.

This situation highlights the importance of staying informed during wildfire season. The safety of both drivers and firefighters is paramount. We will continue to update this article as more information becomes available.

[Add a call to action, such as "Stay safe and check ADOT's website for updates!"]