San Rafael Fire grows

Tucson, Arizona – Arizona forest officials say evacuations are currently underway in Santa Cruz County due to an outbreak of wildfires near Patagonia.

The San Rafael fire started on Saturday night, May 7, 2022, and has grown to 10,000 acres, officials say. Single-engine air tanks and an air assault platform were ordered.

Phoenix – A massive fire near the Arizona-Mexico border on Sunday burned 10,000 acres and forced evacuations in front of the flames, authorities said.

The San Rafael fire started Saturday night and is located 22 miles southeast of Patagonia within the San Rafael Natural Park.

Evacuations have been issued for San Rafael Valley and residences on the Canillo Pass and Canilo Road, the Arizona Department of Forestry and Fire Department said in a press release.

A red flag warning is in effect Sunday for most of Arizona through evening according to Arizona State Forests.

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Officials say gusty winds and low relative humidity will pose a challenge to firefighters.

Arizona State Forestry says State Route 83 is now closed north for road updates, please call 5-1-1.