QUEEN VALLEY, Ariz. (AP) — Authorities say an evacuation order has been issued for some residents as crews battle a lightning-caused wildfire in Queen Valley east of Phoenix.
Tonto National Forest officials say the fire has burned nearly 29 square miles (7,486 hectares) as of Tuesday with 8% containment.
A precautionary order was issued for homes along Silver King and Williams roads starting at noon Tuesday as firefighters begin backburning operations to protect structures in the area.
Forest officials say Queen Valley residents should be prepared to be out of their homes for a minimum of three days.
The town is located about 50 miles (80 kilometers) east of Phoenix.
The communities of Elephant Butte, Hardt Tank and Angel Basin were evacuated Monday by the growing wildfire that started Saturday night.
