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Due to breezy conditions and abundant dry fuels, the Sand Stone Fire grew significantly Saturday, mostly to the north and east between Hwy 87 and the Verde River on the Cave Creek Ranger District. Today’s flight mapped the fire at 12,985 acres. There is 0% containment.   

Fire crews are working to keep the fire west of Highway 87. In an abundance of caution, ADOT is working on a closure for one southbound land on Hwy 87 for firefighter and public safety. The closure is from mile marker 209 to 213 or Sycamore Canyon to Dos S Ranch. Travelers need to be alerted to fire conditions and be prepared for firefighters and equipment working on the fire, as well as additional traffic and potential delays depending on today’s fire activity. 

Firefighters are being assisted by two helicopters and a large airtanker is arriving soon. Crews are working to protect private property in the fire vicinity and powerlines north of the fire and minimize impacts to natural resources. There are 60+ personnel assigned to the incident with more on their way, including Southwest Incident Management Team 4. This Team will assume command of the incident Monday morning. 

The forecast shows high temperatures from 100 to 105, humidity around 15%, wind gusts 15 to 20 mph and a slight chance of thunderstorms. Little to no thunderstorm activity is expected through the week.