Fire Commands Shift to Southeast Zone Type 3 Incident Management Team

Upgraded to set at 11:25am from Ready

Fort Thomas – As the Blythe Fire continues its approach toward Fort Thomas, the Graham County Sheriff’s Office has urged residents in the River Corridor area to prepare for possible evacuation. This warning comes as the fire rapidly expanded on Friday, creating a containment line of 25-30 feet. Homes in the Eden area are on high alert, with a potential for a “GO” evacuation status expected by early Sunday. The fire is believed to be sparked by human activity, although details remain unclear; initial reports mentioned a possible ATV explosion as the cause.

On Friday night, the fire was fueled by southeast winds as it moved northwest through the Gila River Bottom. Firefighters were actively engaged, working through the early hours to manage spot fires and assess the situation for additional resources. The intensity of the fire remains high, leading to long-range spotting.

Friday saw the fire move toward Fort Thomas, approximately six miles to the northwest, prompting the arrival of extra support including engines, medical teams, and water resources. More than 175 personnel are currently assigned to manage the incident.

A second hotshot crew is set to join efforts on Saturday morning. Their focus will be on the north/northwest side of the fire, aiming to control its spread. They are also preparing river roads approximately three miles ahead of the fire to serve as containment measures. Efforts are underway around Fort Thomas utilizing both direct and indirect methods. The goal is to keep the fire contained north of US Highway 70 while it burns through dense Tamarisk vegetation near Eden. This invasive plant poses unique challenges as it produces extreme fire behavior and thick smoke. Over the weekend, hot and dry conditions are anticipated. The Craig County Sheriff’s Office has also issued a notification to all homes in the Fort Thomas corridor to prepare for possible evacuation.

The fire ignited on Wednesday, May 7, before 3:30 PM, and the following day it expanded to cover approximately 160 acres. Strong winds contributed to its growth, pushing it past 850 acres by Friday. Single-engine air tankers were requested but were quickly grounded when deemed ineffective. Water scoopers helped manage the fire for the rest of the day, drawing from the nearby San Carlos Reservoir. While several power and gas lines have been impacted, no structures have reported damage as of now. Some residents have voluntarily evacuated, while US Highway 70 remains open, though drivers should be alert for possible smoke-related closures.

As of today, the Arizona Department of Forestry and Fire Management will transition fire management to the Southeast Zone Type 3 Incident Management Team.

Evacuation Measures for All Hazards

Ready – Get Ready Now

• Take proactive measures for potential seasonal threats.
• Sign up for the County/Tribal Emergency Notification System.
• Follow local emergency management, sheriff’s office, and public health departments on social media.
• Develop a family evacuation and communication plan. Include important contacts and meeting spots, keeping health guidelines in mind.
• Create an emergency GO kit with essentials for at least 72 hours, including necessary health supplies.
• Check on neighbors and family via video calls or phones.
• Stay informed through local news and updates on weather and public health.

Set – Be Cautious

• Consider relocating to avoid hazards when necessary.
• Prepare your emergency GO kit.
• Address the specific needs of your family, pets, and livestock.
• Keep informed through updates from public safety officials.

This notification may be the only one received. Emergency Services cannot ensure that all individuals will be warned if conditions change rapidly.

Go! – Evacuate

• Immediately evacuate to shelters or with family/friends outside the impact zone.
• If you ignore this advice, understand emergency services may not be able to assist you further.
• Follow guidance from emergency personnel and avoid restricted areas.

– Source: Arizona Wild Fire Dashboard