SUPERIOR, Ariz. (AP) - About 250 homes east of metro Phoenix are under evacuation orders because of a wildfire.
The human-caused wildfire in the Tonto National Forest has grown to nearly 79 square miles (204 square kilometers). It is 41% contained.
Firefighters are being challenged Thursday by gusty winds, low humidity, high temperatures and the terrain.
The homes are within a 12-mile radius of Roosevelt Lake, a popular recreation. Gila County spokesman Josh Beck says the wildfire is within seven miles of the homes.
A shelter for residents and small pets has been set up at Lee Kornegay School in Miami. Livestock can be taken to the Gila County Fairground in Globe.
The U.S. Forest Service says firefighters also are working to protect transmission lines, copper mining sites and a school of natural healing.
