The story was updated on Thursday, May 1st at 3:38pm to include new details about the wildfire containment efforts.

The fires near Sunsites-Pearce in Cochise County are currently at 54% containment.

Officials are actively monitoring the northern and eastern areas of the fire, looking for smoke and any risks that might ignite new fires as critical weather forecasts approach this weekend.

On the southwestern front, while fires have diminished, they’re still present in the Dragoon Mountains, where the rocky terrain is hard to access.

Residents living west of Cochise Stronghold Road who evacuated via Ironwood Road are allowed to return, but it’s advisable to remain ready to leave if necessary.

A wildfire in Cochise County, near Sunsites-Pearce, is about 16 miles south of Cochise and 21 miles east of Benson. The fire began Monday morning and has spread to more than 2,138 acres, now at 22% containment.

Firefighting teams are struggling to halt the fire’s spread due to steep and rugged terrain along with thick underbrush.

“The eastern flank is most active, burning through dense grass and brush in Grapevine Canyon,” the overview states. “Certain parts of the area are steep and difficult for vehicles to access.”

Hotshot crews are clearing flammable vegetation with air support on standby. On the southern perimeter, crews are establishing an emergency line to contain the fire if it spreads further.

About 240 firefighters are on-site, including four hotshot crews, four state hand crews, 12 engines, and six water tender trucks. Various aircraft, from helicopters to large air tankers, are ready for deployment as needed.

The cause of the fire remains unclear.

The Cochise County Sheriff’s Office has announced preparations for evacuations for residents north of Middle March Road and south of West Eastland Street. One outbuilding has already been lost, and fire investigators are en route. Evacuation orders are in place for 25 homes, with an additional 100 people also being evacuated.

If you’re located west of Cochise Stronghold Road and south of Ironwood Road, evacuation has been mandated by the county sheriff’s office. Additionally, campgrounds and trailheads in the Stronghold Canyon area are currently closed.