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Officials lift evacuations for Arizona wildfire

Posted at 7:28 AM, Jul 24, 2019
and last updated 2019-07-24 15:51:20-04

FLAGSTAFF, Ariz. (AP) - Residents ordered to evacuate more than two dozen homes because of an Arizona wildfire can return.

Authorities said Wednesday that the fire is no longer an imminent threat. The residents of the forested city of Flagstaff were told to leave Monday evening so that firefighters could work to starve the fire of fuel.

Rain, higher humidity and cooler weather have helped firefighters attack the blaze. It has burned nearly 3 square miles (8 square kilometers) in the mountains overlooking Flagstaff.

The Coconino County Sheriff's Office says the evacuated residents can return home Wednesday afternoon. They'll be required to check in with deputies and show identification.

About 5,000 people remain on notice they may have to flee.

Officials say the fire is human-caused but don't know exactly how it started.

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