US: Thousands evacuated as Bush Fire continues to spread in Tonto National Forest, Arizona June 17

Event

Thousands of residents have been evacuated as of Wednesday morning (local time) on June 17, as the Bush Fire, northeast of Phoenix, Arizona, in the Tonto National Forest continues to rapidly spread. According to the National Interagency Coordination Center, the fire has burned more than 64,500 acres (26,102 hectares) and is zero percent contained. The majority of an estimated 2000 evacuees are residents in the Tonto Basin and Punkin Center and have relocated to temporary emergency shelters in the area. More than 400 firefighters from across multiple agencies are currently battling the fire, which is expected to continue to spread over the coming days as high temperatures, low humidity, and strong winds are forecast to continue. 

An emergency response presence and localized transportation disruptions, namely road closures, should be anticipated in the affected areas.

Advice

Individuals in the vicinity of the Tonto National Forest are advised to monitor the situation, avoid the area, and adhere to all instructions issued by the local authorities.