Brush Fire South Of Payson Leads To SR-87 Closure

Michael

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Post on Jun 14, 2025

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Brush Fire South of Payson Leads to SR-87 Closure: Evacuations Ordered

A rapidly spreading brush fire south of Payson, Arizona, has prompted the closure of State Route 87 (SR-87) and the evacuation of nearby residents. The blaze, ignited late Tuesday afternoon, has consumed hundreds of acres and is posing a significant threat to homes and infrastructure in the area. Firefighters are battling the intense flames, hampered by high winds and dry conditions.

SR-87 Closure and Evacuation Orders:

The Arizona Department of Transportation (ADOT) announced the complete closure of SR-87 in both directions between mileposts 244 and 261. This closure, which began late Tuesday evening, is expected to remain in effect for an undetermined period. Drivers are urged to avoid the area and seek alternate routes. Authorities have also issued mandatory evacuation orders for residents in several communities south of Payson, with specific areas detailed on the Gila County Sheriff's Office website. Those evacuated are urged to check the Gila County website for updates and shelter information.

The Fight Against the Flames:

Multiple fire crews from various agencies, including the Arizona Department of Forestry and Fire Management (DFFM) and local fire departments, are on the scene battling the blaze. Air support, including helicopters and air tankers, is being utilized to drop water and retardant on the fire's perimeter. The challenging terrain and unpredictable winds are making firefighting efforts extremely difficult. The cause of the fire is currently under investigation, though initial reports suggest it may have been human-caused.

Community Impact and Safety Precautions:

The brush fire has caused significant disruption to the community. Local schools are closed, and residents are urged to remain vigilant and follow instructions from emergency personnel. Air quality in the area is significantly impacted, and individuals with respiratory issues are advised to stay indoors. Those who remain in the vicinity should be aware of potential smoke inhalation risks and have emergency plans in place.

Looking Ahead:

The situation remains dynamic, and updates will be provided as they become available. Authorities are working tirelessly to contain the fire and ensure public safety. For the latest information on road closures, evacuation orders, and fire updates, please refer to the following resources:

• Gila County Sheriff's Office: [Insert Gila County Sheriff's Office Website Link Here]
• Arizona Department of Transportation (ADOT): [Insert ADOT Website Link Here]
• Arizona Department of Forestry and Fire Management (DFFM): [Insert DFFM Website Link Here]

Keywords: Payson, Arizona, brush fire, SR-87 closure, wildfire, evacuation, Gila County, ADOT, DFFM, Arizona Department of Forestry and Fire Management, Arizona Department of Transportation, road closure, emergency, fire, safety

Note: Remember to replace the bracketed links with the actual website addresses. This article is designed to be SEO-friendly and informative. The use of headings, bullet points, bold text, and relevant keywords helps optimize the article for search engines while ensuring readability for users. Regular updates to the article, particularly concerning the status of the fire and related closures, will be crucial for maintaining relevance and user engagement.