News Summary
The Greer Fire in eastern Arizona has consumed over 20,000 acres, with containment efforts reaching 38% as of May 19. As firefighting teams battle strong winds and dry vegetation, mandatory evacuations have been issued for surrounding areas. Shelters are available for evacuees, and fire restrictions are in effect. A state of emergency has been declared as the community seeks to manage the rapidly evolving situation.
Arizona – The Greer Fire continues to wreak havoc in eastern Arizona, having consumed 20,425 acres as of May 19, with current containment efforts reaching 38%, according to InciWeb, a federal fire tracking service. The fire, which ignited on May 13, is primarily being fueled by dry grass, shrubs, and timber, presenting ongoing challenges for firefighting teams.
On May 19, it was reported that control efforts had begun, following extensive firefighting measures. Despite strong winds testing fire control lines, the incident management team reported that these lines held firm. Firefighters are focusing on limiting the extent of the fire’s perimeter and cooling hotspots in the area. Although smoke remains visible and the fire has grown in acreage, this is attributed to previously unburnt fuels being consumed by the flames.
As of May 18, nearly 800 personnel are on the frontline battling the fire. The situation remains critical as mandatory evacuation orders were issued on May 16 for residents in Eagar, Greer, South Fork, and areas west of State Route 261. Specific evacuation zones include residents in Eagar located south of State Route 260 and between River Road and the junction of SR 260/U.S. 180. The fire has crossed State Route 261, prompting significant highways in the eastern Arizona region to close, as confirmed by the Arizona Department of Transportation.
In response to the evacuations, shelters have been established at the County Fairgrounds in St. Johns and the Alpine Community Center, where evacuees can access food and blankets. As the fire’s intensity continues, the Apache-Sitgreaves National Forest has issued a closure order for National Forest land within the fire area. Stage 2 fire restrictions, which prohibit campfires and open flames, are now in effect to mitigate fire risk.
Firefighting crews are anticipated to patrol the area and manage hotspots as they prepare for potentially unfavorable weather conditions. The state forester has warned of ongoing hazardous fire conditions due to dry vegetation and persists with red flag warning protocols. Strong gusty winds and low humidity levels pose significant risks, contributing to the fire’s spread.
The fire has already caused damage, with three structures, including a travel trailer, reported destroyed; however, no injuries to the public have been documented. A state of emergency has been declared by Arizona Governor Katie Hobbs, aimed at streamlining resource allocation for ongoing firefighting efforts.
For those in the surrounding areas, a “SET” designation has been issued for evacuation zones, signaling residents should prepare for the possibility of sudden evacuation. Due to localized conditions, hazards from the fire, including poor air quality and visibility issues caused by dust and sand, have also affected the White Mountains region.
A public meeting is scheduled for May 19 at Round Valley High School to provide updates regarding the wildfire situation and will be available to livestream on YouTube for those unable to attend in person. The community continues to hold hope as firefighting teams work diligently to bring the Greer Fire under control amidst these challenging conditions.
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
- AZCentral: Greer Fire Burns 20k Acres
- Google Search: Greer Fire Arizona
- KTAR: Greer Fire Update May 19
- Wikipedia: Wildfire
- ABC News: Greer Fire Expands
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Wildfire
- AZFamily: Windy Day Ahead with Greer Fire
- Google News: Greer Fire Arizona
