1 dead after sparks start Arizona brush fire
The state’s Department of Forestry and Fire Management reports more than 80% of Arizona’s fires are caused by humans. The peak for wildfire season used to be in the summer, but the agency now considers the season to be active year-round.
Firefighters battle 20-acre fire southeast of Tucson, Arizona
Firefighters in Arizona said they are working to contain a 20-acre fire in the southeast portion of the state.
WHETSTONE, Ariz. – Firefighters in Arizona said they are working to contain a 28-acre fire in the southeast portion of the state that destroyed several structures and sent at least two people to the hospital.
Arizona’s Department of Forestry and Fire Management said the Bowers Fire began on Monday evening and is burning primarily in Babocomari River bed.
Evacuations were issued for nearby residences, and according to local firefighters, several structures have either been damaged or destroyed by flames.
The Cochise County Sheriff's Office said an 81-year-old homeowner was working with his son on a grinder when sparks started the brush fire.
The men attempted to quickly put out the fire but were seriously injured during the fire fight.
On Tuesday evening, deputies said the elderly man succumbed to his injuries at a hospital, while his son continues to be treated.
Additionally, local authorities said a third person, who was identified as a firefighter, sustained minor injuries.
Arizona’s Department of Forestry and Fire Management said the Bowers Fire began on Monday evening and is burning primarily in Babocomari River bed.
(Cochise County Sheriff's Office)
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A wet winter has led to the growth of vegetation, which is now drying out as the calendar quickly approaches summer.
The burning of cottonwoods was said to be of concern to firefighters due to their flammability and extreme smoke.
The peak for wildfire activity used to come in the summer, but Arizona’s Department of Forestry and Fire Management said it is now a year-round danger.
More than 80% of Arizona’s fires are estimated to be caused by humans, and the department said hundreds of thousands of acres burn every year.
(FOX Weather)
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Parts of southern Arizona and New Mexico are some of the driest regions in the country, according to the latest U.S. drought monitor.
More than 34% of Arizona is considered to be in drought conditions, while more than 74% of New Mexico is facing similar circumstances.
Drought conditions will likely continue until the annual monsoon season gets underway, which can start as early as June and last through September.
The region receives about half of its annual precipitation during monsoon season, which can fluctuate depending on the weather patterns.
Elsewhere in the state, forestry officials said ideal weather has allowed them to conduct multiple burns in an effort to reduce the overall fire risk.