Contributed Photo: A tanker drops retardant to help battle the fire’s progression.
Fire at nearly 10,000 acres with 0% containment
By Jon Johnson
SANTA TERESA MOUNTAINS – The growth of the Pinnacle Fire burning in the Santa Teresa Mountains west of Safford and north of Klondyke has triggered the evacuation of homes north of Arvavaipa/Klondyke Road and east of the fire.
All of those residences were placed on the “GO” designation as of 2 p.m. on Sunday. Residences in the Klondyke area have been placed in the “READY” status.
As of Monday morning, the fire was listed at approximately 9,911 acres with 0% containment. The cause of the fire remains under investigation, and roughly 334 personnel are currently assigned to the fire.
Aided by the extreme drought and temperatures, the fire’s progression on Sunday triggered additional evacuations on the southeast corner. The fire also pushed to the southwest into State Trust Lands. The wind and fuels have helped the fire move down the mountain.
On Monday, firefighters will concentrate on the southern and easter perimeters and continue to protect structures in the fire’s path. Additionally, firefighters will scout the Black Rock Road corridor for defensible terrain and natural barriers.
Closures: Coronado National Forest portion of the Santa Teresa Mountains. See: https://Coronadonationalforest/Facebook.com. A Temporary Flight Restriction has been enacted for the surrounding area by the Federal Aviation Administration.
Restrictions: The Coronado National Forest has implemented Stage 2 fire restrictions. For detailed information on restrictions see:https://www.fs.usda.gov/Internet/FSE_DOCUMENTS/fseprd915424.pdf
