Reduces the risk of wildfires in cities in northern Arizona
Bagging pine needles and moving plantings away from the side of the house is a way to prevent urban wildfires.
The ranch fire, a 2,751 acre wildfire in Santa Cruz County, was 47% contained as of Friday morning, according to the Arizona Department of Forestry and Fire Management.
A lightning strike on a tree sparked sparks on Wednesday morning, with the fire burning about 19 miles southeast of Patagonia in the San Rafael Valley. The strong winds fueled by dense grass and brushes have driven flames from the state’s land into the Coronado National Forest.
Throughout the week, large air tankers worked with crews on the ground to control the flames, aided by an increase in cooler temperatures and relative humidity overnight.
The crew continues their mop-up operations as they work towards full containment along the fire boundaries and areas of heavy vegetation.
The Santa Cruz County Emergency Management Department has downgraded all residents to the “ready” stage of the “ready” emergency response system.
Santa Cruz County residents can sign up for an emergency alert. https://entry.inspironlogistics.com/santacruz_az/wens.cfm
Approximately 135 staff members, including hand crews and engines, remained assigned to the fire.
Stage 2 fire restrictions are effective in southeastern Arizona
In May 2025, state, federal and tribal agencies were established. Stage 2 fire restrictions It crosses southeast Arizona in response to the rising risk of extreme droughts and wildfires.
Since May 12, restrictions have banned outdoor smoking – all campfires and stoves have fired on public lands and include people from the developed campsites. Fireworks are strictly prohibited on both state and federal lands.
Violation of the restrictions will be punished by a fine or imprisonment, and the offender may be personally liable for a refund of fire fees.
Visitors and residents should check with their local jurisdiction for relevant information as fire restrictions may change.
Details can be found at https://wildlandfire.az.gov/fire-restrictions.
John Leos covers the environmental issues of the Republic of Arizona and AzCentral. Send tips and questions john.leos@arizonarepublic.com.
Environmental coverage in azcentral.com and in the Republic of Arizona is supported by grants from the Nina Mason Puliam Charit Trust.
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