GLOBE, AZ — Officials say evacuations have been ordered for some Gila County residents as crews continue to battle the Mescal Fire southeast of Globe.
As of Tuesday morning, the fire is 66,913 acres and 23% contained, according to officials.
Some residents of the San Carlos area were allowed back to their homes Tuesday morning, placing them back in a "SET" evacuation status.
Officials said evacuation orders have been issued for the following locations:
- El Capitan residents living on the east side of State Route 77
The following communities are in "SET" orders and should prepare and be alert for updates:
- Lower Peridot
- Skill Center
- Peridot South
- T11 Ranch
- Beverly Hills
- El Capitan west of State Route 77
- San Carlos High School area (Coyote Flats)
- Soda Canyon
Officials say a temporary shelter has been set up at High Desert Middle School at 4000 High Desert Drive in Globe.
#Mescalfire Update: - With the increase in wildfire activity in Gila County, the Red Cross has moved the shelter from Miami, AZ to High Desert Middle School, 4000 High Desert Drive, Globe, Az. 85501. Residents affected are encouraged to show up at this shelter location. pic.twitter.com/uKJd8bm2xK
— Red Cross AZ (@RedCrossAZ) June 7, 2021
Officials say about 500 personnel are currently working the blaze, located 12 miles southeast of Globe.
The Arizona Department of Transportation said State Route 77 between Winkelman and US Highway 70 has been closed due to smoke. This will allow firefighters to travel to and work safely in the area.
Highway 70 reopened Sunday morning and is being rerouted around the fire area.
*WILDFIRE CLOSURE UPDATES, 4:43 am Mon.
— Arizona DOT (@ArizonaDOT) June 7, 2021
• US 60: Superior-Top-of-the-World;
• SR 77: Globe-Winkelman
• SR 177: Superior-Winkelman.
* SR 70: Closed to semis/commercial traffic MP 272-302
Check the apps: https://t.co/18uQYLoqla#aztraffic #mescalfire #telegraphfire #azfire pic.twitter.com/b2VIpmlmbB
Residents are asked to leave immediately, take any medications, pets family valuables, and close all windows that include window coverings and leave all doors closed, county officials said.
San Carlos lands west of Route 3 and Old San Carlos Road south to the Reservation border are closed to all entry.
The fire reportedly started on Tuesday, June 1, and the cause remains under investigation.
