01 May 2018 | 04:15 PM UTC
US: Tinder Fire in Arizona prompts state of emergency April 30
Arizona governor declares state of emergency due to Tinder Fire in in Coconino county April 30; no casualties reported, but fire destroys buildings, prompts evacuations
Event
Arizona Governor Doug Ducey declared a state of emergency in Coconino county on Monday, April 30, due to the ongoing Tinder Fire. The fire has reportedly burned over 3642 hectares (9000 acres) since it ignited on Friday, April 27, and greatly grew in size and intensity on Sunday, April 29. Though no casualties have been reported as of Tuesday, May 1, it has nonetheless destroyed buildings and prompted evacuation orders in affected and vulnerable areas, including communities to the north, east, and west of Highway 87. Localized traffic disruptions are expected in affected areas.
Windy conditions, gusting around 24-48 km/h (15-30 mph), have caused the fire to spread and are forecast to continue to affect the area through May 1, before conditions improve on late on Tuesday (local time) or early on Wednesday, May 2.
Advice
Individuals in affected and threatened areas are advised to monitor developments to the situation and to adhere to all instructions issued by the local authorities (i.e. evacuation orders).
