Monarch Fire Near Wickenburg Prompts US 60 Closures and Evacuation Alerts 🔥
Published by iSkyNews.com | July 1, 2025
WICKENBURG, Ariz. — A fast-moving wildfire known as the Monarch Fire is burning southeast of Wickenburg, forcing transportation disruptions and prompting evacuation readiness alerts. As of 1:30 PM, the fire has consumed approximately 100 acres and continues to grow due to gusty winds reaching up to 45 mph.
The fire was first reported earlier today in a rugged desert area approximately five miles southeast of Wickenburg, sparking a large-scale response from multiple firefighting agencies. Crews from the Arizona Department of Forestry and Fire Management, Wickenburg Fire Department, and Arizona Fire & Medical Authority are actively working to contain the blaze.
📸 Credit: Arizona Department of Forestry and Fire Management
🔥 Firefighting Operations Underway
Aerial retardant drops are being conducted throughout the day, requiring intermittent closures of US 60 in both directions between mileposts 115 and 117. These temporary shutdowns are necessary to protect fire crews and the public while aircraft perform repeated fire suppression passes over the fire zone.
Ground crews have deployed multiple fire engines, bulldozers, and hand crews to battle the flames on steep terrain, while tankers and helicopters continue making aerial drops.
The fire has also crossed nearby railroad tracks, resulting in a temporary suspension of train traffic in the area.
🚨 Evacuation Readiness and Public Alerts
Officials have placed neighborhoods stretching from Rio Vista Hills to Saguaro Blossom Lane, including parts of Wickenburg and Allah, into “SET” evacuation status. This means residents should remain alert, have an evacuation plan in place, and be ready to leave immediately if conditions worsen.
NOW: Due to the fire near US 60, motorists traveling between the Phoenix Valley and Kingman are being advised to use Interstate 17 and Interstate 40 as alternate routes until further notice. Heavy smoke and emergency activity make US 60 unsafe for regular travel.
📸 Photo Credit: Arizona Department of Forestry and Fire Management
🚗 Traffic and Safety Information
- US 60 Status: Intermittent closures in both directions for air operations.
- ADOT Assistance: Arizona Department of Transportation is managing traffic control in coordination with fire operations.
- Driver Warning: Expect delays, obey detour signs, and avoid parking in dry brush areas. Authorities are urging the public to remain vigilant and not engage in activities that could spark additional fires.
📍 Key Takeaways
| Topic | Details |
|---|---|
| Fire Name | Monarch Fire |
| Location | 5 miles southeast of Wickenburg, AZ |
| Size | ~100 acres |
| Conditions | High winds up to 45 mph; fast spread in rugged terrain |
| Evacuation Status | “SET” for nearby residents — be prepared to evacuate |
| Road Closures | US 60 closed intermittently (MP 115–117) for air support operations |
| Alternate Routes | Use I-17 and I-40 between Phoenix and Kingman |
| Agencies Involved | AZ Dept. of Forestry, Wickenburg FD, Arizona Fire & Medical, ADOT |
| Rail Impacts | Nearby train operations temporarily halted |
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📲 Stay Informed:
Follow the Arizona Department of Forestry and Fire Management, Arizona DOT, and your local emergency management agencies for live updates. Continue monitoring iSkyNews.com for breaking news, traffic alerts, and evacuation changes as this situation evolves.
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