The Wildcat Fire has significantly expanded, increasing over the weekend from 5,000 acres to 13,140 acres due to adverse weather conditions. Firefighters are working tirelessly to contain the blaze, with successful fire suppression efforts reported on the north and east sides during the night shift.
The fire remains active on the southeast perimeter, where fire crews are actively scouting and constructing fire lines to prevent further spread. Aerial support continues to play a crucial role, with helicopters deploying fire retardant and water to slow the fire’s growth.
Weather forecasts indicate a warming trend, with temperatures rising to the upper 80s and near 90 degrees Fahrenheit. Relative humidity will range between 9-14%. South winds are expected to gust up to 20 miles per hour in the afternoon, subsiding by evening. Overnight, temperatures will drop to around 61 degrees, with maximum humidity between 25-30%. Southwest winds will persist at 6-11 miles per hour during the night.
For public safety, a closure order is in effect for the Cave Creek Ranger District due to the uncontrolled Wildcat Fire. Bartlett Lake Road is closed, and the public is advised to avoid the area to ensure the safety of both firefighters and residents. The full closure order can be viewed on the Tonto National Forest’s website.
The safety of firefighters and the public remains the highest priority. Residents are urged to sign up for the Maricopa County Emergency Notification System for timely updates on possible evacuations. For comprehensive information on emergency preparedness, visit the Arizona Emergency Information Network.
The use of drones near the fire zone is strictly prohibited as they pose a significant risk to firefighting operations. Remember, if you fly, we can’t.
Smoke from the Wildcat Fire will be visible in surrounding areas for several days. Southwest winds will carry the smoke north and east. Individuals with respiratory conditions or heart disease should take necessary precautions. An interactive smoke map is available at [Fire AirNow](https://fire.airnow.gov/) for the latest smoke conditions in your area.
Fire Details
- Location: East of Desert Mountain Community and Tonto Hills Development; West of Bartlett Lake Reservoir on the Cave Creek Ranger District.
- Start Date: May 18, 2024
- Size: Approximately 13,140 acres
- Percent Contained: 0%
- Cause: Under investigation
- Vegetation: Burning grasses and desert shrub
- Resources: 1 large helicopter, 1 light helicopter, 7 fire crews, 10 fire engines, 1 water tender, 1 medic crew, with additional resources en route.
- Personnel Assigned: 180
For more information, visit the Tonto National Forest website at https://www.fs.usda.gov/main/tonto/fire or InciWeb at https://inciweb.wildfire.gov/incident-information/aztnf-wildcat-fire. You can also contact the fire information team via email at [email protected].
Stay informed, stay safe, and follow all advisories to help support the efforts of our firefighters battling the Wildcat Fire.
