Wildfire forces evacuations near Patagonia

The San Rafael Fire began Saturday night about 22 miles southeast of Patagonia and quickly spread northeast through heavy grass. Red-flag conditions Sunday saw wind gusts up to 45 mph. The fire was estimated at about 10,562 acres as of Monday.

The wind-driven fire is zero percent contained, according to state fire officials. Crews worked Sunday into Monday building lines ahead of the blaze in an effort to slow it down, officials said.

Santa Cruz County authorities ordered residents in the San Rafael Valley and residences on Canelo Pass Road and Canelo Pass to evacuate Sunday. More evacuations were possible Monday as officials were expecting more high winds. About 80 people have been evacuated from their residences, officials said.

Multiple hand crews and fire engines are engaged in fire suppression efforts. Aircraft, including single-engine air tankers, very large air tankers, a large air tanker and helicopters, are also assigned to the blaze. More resources were added to the fire Monday, with about 120 people assigned to the blaze.

The cause of the fire is under investigation.

The Arizona Department of Transportation closed Arizona 83 northbound at the Cochise-Santa Cruz County line at milepost 10. For updated traffic information, dial 511. The Arizona Trail from Parker Canyon Lake to Harshaw Road is closed because of the fire.

The American Red Cross has established an evacuation center at the United Methodist Patagonia Community Church, 387 McKeown Ave., Patagonia, for those affected by the San Rafael Fire.