Payson Area: SR-87 Shut Down Following Brush Fire

Michael

3 min read

Post on Jun 14, 2025

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Payson Area: SR-87 Shutdown Following Major Brush Fire

A significant brush fire has forced the closure of State Route 87 (SR-87) in the Payson area, causing major traffic disruptions and prompting evacuations. The blaze, which ignited late this afternoon, is rapidly spreading due to high winds and dry conditions, posing a significant threat to nearby communities. Authorities are urging residents to remain vigilant and follow all evacuation orders.

SR-87 Closure and Traffic Impacts

State Route 87, a major artery connecting Payson to the Phoenix metropolitan area, is currently completely shut down in both directions between Milepost 240 and Milepost 260. The Arizona Department of Transportation (ADOT) is advising drivers to avoid the area entirely and seek alternative routes. Traffic is severely congested on surrounding roads, leading to significant delays. ADOT is providing real-time updates on its website and social media channels (), so drivers should check for the latest information before attempting to travel in the affected area. Expect extensive delays and potential road closures for the foreseeable future.

Evacuations and Emergency Response

Multiple neighborhoods near the fire are under mandatory evacuation orders. Local fire crews, assisted by state and federal agencies, are battling the blaze using air and ground resources. The size and intensity of the fire are still being assessed, but initial reports suggest it has already consumed hundreds of acres. The cause of the fire is currently under investigation.

Residents in affected areas should:

• Immediately evacuate if instructed by authorities.
• Follow directions from emergency personnel.
• Monitor official channels for updates on the fire and evacuation orders.
• Have an emergency preparedness kit readily available. This should include essentials such as water, food, medications, and important documents.

Safety Precautions and Community Support

With the fire continuing to spread, residents in the Payson area are urged to take precautions to protect themselves and their property. This includes staying informed about the fire's progress, staying clear of the affected area, and being prepared for potential power outages. The Red Cross has opened an evacuation center at )

Long-Term Impacts and Recovery

The full extent of the damage caused by this brush fire will not be known for some time. The SR-87 closure alone is expected to have significant economic impacts on the Payson area, affecting businesses and tourism. Once the fire is contained, the focus will shift to recovery efforts, including assessing the damage, providing aid to those affected, and rebuilding affected infrastructure. The community will undoubtedly need support during this challenging time.

This is a developing situation, and we will continue to provide updates as more information becomes available. Stay tuned to this website and local news channels for the latest developments. Remember to prioritize your safety and follow the instructions of local authorities.

Keywords: Payson, Arizona, SR-87, brush fire, wildfire, road closure, traffic, evacuation, emergency, ADOT, Red Cross, fire safety, news, update.