SUPERIOR, Ariz. (AP) — Firefighters around Arizona are battling numerous wildfires as weather forecasters warn of dangerously high temperatures over the next few days.
The largest in Superior, about 60 miles (97 kilometers) east of Phoenix, has forced hundreds of people out of their homes and destroyed about two dozen structures. The Red Cross has shelters set up in Globe and Mesa.
The so-called Telegraph Fire started a week ago Friday and has scorched 135 square miles (349.65 square kilometers) of mostly shrub and grass. Crews were focused on keeping the fire south of U.S. Highway 60. They have about 40% of the fire’s perimeter contained.
Officials said it has moved fast, and the rising temperatures won’t help. Heat warnings and advisories have been issued for large parts of Arizona.
A virtual public meeting was planned Friday evening. The blaze is believed to be human-caused.
Political Cartoons
Another wildfire in the same region was holding steady at 113 square miles (292.67 square kilometers) Friday. It was 77% contained. The cause is under investigation.
Other big fires were burning near Flagstaff, and in the central and southern parts of the state.
Copyright 2021 The Associated Press. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed.
