PHOENIX – The Flying Bucket Fire in southwestern Maricopa County doubled in size Tuesday after a day of strong winds, state officials said.
The fire has burned about 4,000 acres in a remote area between Gila Bend and the city of Maricopa and is 30% contained, according to the Arizona Department of Forestry and Fire Management. said Wednesday morning..
The Flying Bucket Fire was mapped at just over 2,000 acres Tuesday morning, but strong winds and warm temperatures caused the flames to spread through short grass and brush.
About 100 people, assisted by multiple aircraft, were evacuated Tuesday between State Route 238 and Interstate 8, about 20 miles (32 kilometers) southwest of Maricopa, as crews worked to protect power lines in the area. Firefighters were assigned to the incident.
Additional personnel arrived Wednesday, including two members of the force. Hot, dry and windy conditions remained a concern for firefighters.
Authorities told X news agency that the fire was 50% contained as of 9:25 p.m. Wednesday.
#Flying Bucket Fire:2,795AC. &50% content. Mainly contained to the west side of the fire. Due to dense vegetation, heat remains in the drainage canal along the north-northeast side. Crews worked on that side and southeast corner today. Overall, resources are solving problems. It’s hot, dry and windy… pic.twitter.com/sI03D01YsB
— Arizona Department of Forestry and Fire Management (@azstateforestry) May 9, 2024
Containment was primarily on the west side of the fire. Heat remained along the north and northeast sides of the fire due to dense vegetation.
“Overall, resources are coming to grips with the fire,” the Arizona Department of Forestry and Fire Management said in a statement.
