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US 60 closed and evacuations in place as Rose Fire spreads near Wickenburg

Lina Portman3 weeks ago

5 2 minutes read

WICKENBURG, AZ — A new brush fire has sparked road closures and evacuations of residents near Wickenburg.

As of 10:40 p.m. Wednesday, the Rose Fire had burned 150 acres and was 0% contained.

It is burning in the bed of the Hassayampa River, about four miles south of Wickenburg on the east side of US 60.

Arizona Department of Forestry officials say at least 100 homes were threatened and four homes were destroyed.

AIR15

Fire evacuations have been put in place by the Wickenburg Fire Department for residents located at mileposts 114 and 116.

A “GO” evacuation status has also been ordered by Maricopa County EMS for the community of Rio Vista Hills, south of Wickenburg. Residents are asked to come out now.

The Wickenburg Fire Department has ordered a “SET” status for the Turtle Back Mountain Ranch area and residents on the west side of US 60 from the Hayssayampa Reservation to the Quality Inn area should prepare to evacuate .

ABC15

Residents who need assistance can go to the Wickenburg Community Center located at 160 N. Valentine Street.

According to the Wickenburg Fire Department, the Red Cross is on its way to the community center.

#RoseFire, 150 acres. without confinement at the moment. US 60 remains closed in both directions south of Wickenburg. The fire jumped onto the highway earlier today and is burning on both sides of Highway 60. Active fire along the northwest and southwest sides (west of the highway). Fire fueled by wind, hot and dry conditions. Plane… pic.twitter.com/7a1zLtVl9M

– AZ Department of Forestry and Fire Management (@azstateforestry) June 13, 2024

As of 10:40 p.m., US 60 remains closed in both directions south of Wickenburg.

Rose Fire: Rio Vista Hills community residents in need of assistance are encouraged to come to the Wickenburg Community Center, 160 N Valentine St, Wickenburg AZ https://t.co/R4YGLhLDtd

– Maricopa County Department of Emergency Management (@MaricopaReady) June 13, 2024

The Arizona Department of Transportation says US 60 is closed in both directions in Wickenburg beginning at mile marker 113.

Westbound US lanes are closed at SR 74.

It is not known what caused the fire.

On Wednesday evening, Wikenburg Mayor Rui Pereira released a statement:

“The residents,

We thank you all for your patience and cooperation during the ongoing #RoseFire. Our Wickenburg Police and Fire Departments, along with our mutual aid crews, are working diligently to contain the fire and keep our community safe. At this time, US Hwy 60 remains closed and evacuations are still in place towards Rio Vista Hills. Turtle Back Mountain Ranch continues to be in “definite” status and we urge residents to remain vigilant and prepared.

The strength and resilience of our community shines through in times of adversity. Together, we will overcome this challenge, and I am deeply grateful for the unwavering support and courage shown by our first responders and residents.

Stay safe and continue to follow updates from local authorities.

Sincerely,

Mayor Rui Pereira”