Single Publication

Horton Fire reaches SR-260 after successful firing operations; Containment increases. 
Daily Update: January 7, 2025

Size: 7,032

Cause: Under Investigation

Containment: 19%

Start Date: December 14, 2024

Location:  Payson Ranger District, Arizona                                                                           

Fuels: Ponderosa pine, mixed conifer, chaparral

Resources: 8 crews | 32 engines | 3 helicopters | 1 bulldozers | 4 water tenders

Highlights: It was a successful 24 hours on the Horton Fire, with ground and aerial fire crews implementing firing operations along the side of the Mogollon Rim, from Horton Creek to Christopher Creek. The Horton Fire is now down to the SR-260 corridor between those two drainages, a significant step in the full suppression strategy of securing the Horton Fire on its western and southern edges. Firefighters will work today on securing and patrolling the fire prior to incoming weather changes.  
 

Smoke: Smoke and flames continue to be visible in the area and can be seen from State Route 260. Visibility may be poor at times, especially in the late evening and early morning with current temperatures and inversions. For more information on local smoke impacts, visit https://outlooks.wildlandfiresmoke.net/outlook/.
 

Operations: Crews will continue working on securing and monitor the fireline while mitigating hazards today, ahead of predicted weather changes and increasing winds. With this shift in the weather, ground and aerial resources are expected to transition from active firing operations to patrolling and monitoring the Horton Fire during the weather event. Crews will still be working on the fire on both day and night shifts, including structure protection crews in local neighborhoods such as Tonto Estates and Christopher Creek. 

Weather: Temperatures will range from mid-30s to low-40s with winds at 12-20mph, gusting from 25-30mph,  and relative humidity up to 30%. There is a potential for traces of precipitation today, which could become light showers or flurries depending on temperatures this afternoon. Members of the public are encouraged to practice additional caution today, as roads may become icy. 

TFR: A Temporary Flight Restriction (TFR 5/0461) is in place for the Horton Fire through January 31. More information is available at https://tfr.faa.gov/save_pages/detail_5_0461.html. 

Evacuations, Road Closures and Forest Orders: The communities of Christopher Creek, Hunter Creek, R-C Scout Camp, Tonto Creek Estates, Tonto Christian Camp, Tonto Fish Hatchery, Kohls Ranch, and Zane Grey Cabins are in SET evacuation status. The health and safety of firefighters and the public are always the priority. Members of the public are asked to avoid the area.

Temporary lane closures are occurring due to the Horton Fire when reduced visibility due to smoke occurs on SR-260. Travelers are encouraged to monitor roadway status and conditions via AZ Department of Transportation at https://www.az511.com/.

A Forest closure order is in effect to protect public health and safety during the Horton Fire as well as protecting firefighting personnel engaging in wildland firefighting operations. More information can be found at https://www.fs.usda.gov/alerts/tonto/alerts-notices.