Bighorn Fire Fills Sky With Smoke Near Oracle, Arizona

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Updated

Firefighters battling the Bighorn fire in Arizona would face “another challenging weather day” as wind speed was projected to increase on Thursday, June 18, according to the National Weather Service of Tucson (NWS).

As of Thursday, the fire had reportedly grown to over 31,000 acres and was 40 percent contained, according to local media.

The NWS said winds were forecast to increase 10 to 20 mph, with gusts reaching 30 mph on Thursday.

A lightning strike ignited the fire on June 5, and it has continued to spread with the help of dry and windy conditions, according to the National Wildfire Coordinating Group.

Local media reported that evacuation orders were issued for several communities, including Mount Lemmon, Mount Bigelow, and Summerhaven. The Coronado National Forest said no structures were destroyed as of Wednesday.

This video, filmed from Oracle, shows smoke from the Bighorn fire filling the sky on Wednesday. Oracle was placed on a “SET” status, advising residents to be alert and prepare for a possible evacuation. Credit: Kirstin Dreyfus via Storyful