InciWebSingle Publication
Could not determine your location.
Wildfire
Prescribed Fire
Burned Area
Response
Other
Horton Fire Daily Update 12-31-2024
Horton Fire 2024
Publication Type: News - 12/31/2024 - 10:00
Fire remains active on the Horton Fire as Southwest Area Team 1 assumes command
Daily Update: December 31, 2024
Size: 1,124 acres
Cause: Under Investigation
Containment: 17%
Total personnel: 247
Start Date: December 14, 2024
Location: Payson Ranger District, Arizona
Fuels: Ponderosa pine, mixed conifer, chaparral
Highlights: The Southwest Area Incident Management Team 1 assumed command of the Horton Fire today at 7 a.m. With this transition, the public can expect to see an increase in fire traffic across the area as additional resources continue arriving on-scene through the new year.
Operations: The Horton Fire is now 1,124 acres and 17% containment with fire continuing to burn in a steep and remote portion of the Mogollon Rim. Today, crews will patrol and monitor fire activity. Continued growth is anticipated as fire moves through dense fuels east and south along Promontory Point and east of Horton Springs. Crews will continue their work to prep lines in anticipation of future firing operations.
Weather: Today’s forecast calls for sunny skies and slightly cooler temperatures. Temperatures remain above average with low relative humidity and no precipitation anticipated.
Closures: A new emergency closure order for the Horton Fire is in effect from Dec. 30, 2024, to May 30, 2025, unless rescinded. The public is asked to avoid the fire area. The purpose of the closure order is to protect public health and safety during the Horton Fire, and to protect assigned firefighting personnel engaging in wildland firefighting operations. Learn more at https://www.fs.usda.gov/alerts/tonto/alerts-notices.
Evacuations: The communities of Tonto Creek Estates, Tonto Christian Camp, Tonto Fish Hatchery, and Zane Grey Cabins remain 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 fire area.
Safety: Highway closures are not currently in effect due to the Horton Fire, however reduced visibility due to smoke on SR-260 is possible. Travelers are encouraged to monitor roadway status and conditions via AZ Department of Transportation at https://www.az511.com/.
Information Links and Contacts:
Tonto National Forest https://www.fs.usda.gov/tonto
InciWeb https://inciweb.wildfire.gov/incident-information/aztnf-horton-fire-2024
Fire Email 2024.horton@firenet.gov
Fire Information Line (602)-551-7327 • Office Hours: 8 a.m. – 8 p.m.