Wildfire burning in Tucson's Ventana Canyon area

Smoke from a wildfire that started early Monday could be seen from across Tucson. There is no official cause for the fire, but officials noted there was lightning in the area Monday night.

Progress was made overnight on the wildfire in Ventana Canyon as it enters its second day, Coronado National Forest Service officials said this morning.

First confirmed Tuesday about 3:30 a.m, the wildfire had grown to approximately 55 acres by late afternoon Tuesday. The size of the fire was about the same Wednesday morning, Coronado National Service officials said on Twitter.

The fire was about 25% contained, the agency said Wednesday.

On Tuesday about 20 retardant drops were made to box in the fire, officials said.

No official cause has been released, although there were reports of lightning in the area at the time the fire started.

Crews were expected to be flown by helicopter to the top of Mount Lemmon today. Water drops from Rose Canyon Lake also were to continue Wednesday, officials said. Three helicopters are committed to the fire.

The lake remains closed along with the following trailheads: Finger Rock, Pima Canyon and Ventana Canyon.

Get your morning recap of today's local news and read the full stories here: http://tucne.ws/morning


Become a #ThisIsTucson member! Your contribution helps our team bring you stories that keep you connected to the community. Become a member today.