Stronghold Fire with crew buggies in the foreground.
A wildfire is burning in Cochise County near Sunsites-Pearce, about 16 miles south of Cochise and 21 miles east of Benson. The Stronghold Fire started Monday morning and has grown to over 2,138 acres. As of this morning, it is 22% contained.
Crews are working to stop the fire’s spread, but steep terrain and heavy brush are making access tough.
“The eastern flank is the most active as it burns through heavy fuel consisting of grass and brush components within Grapevine Canyon,” an incident overview reads. “Parts of the area are steep, rugged, and inaccessible by vehicle.”
Hotshot crews are removing vegetation that could fuel the fire with air support on standby. On the south side, personnel are working to create a contingency line–a safety net if the fire goes beyond its main area.
About 240 firefighters are on scene. 4 Hotshot crews, 4 state hand crews, 12 engines, and 6 water tenders are assigned to the incident. Aircraft like a helicopter, single-engine air tankers, large air tankers and very large air tankers are available as needed.
The cause is still unknown.
The Cochise County Sheriff’s Office has notified residents north of Middle March Road and south of West Eastland Street to prepare for evacuation. One outbuilding has been destroyed, and a fire investigator is on the way. Evacuation orders remain in place for 25 homes, with 100 more in pre-evacuation.
If you reside west of Cochise Stronghold Road and south of Ironwood Road, the county sheriff’s office is directing you to leave. The Stronghold Canyon area campgrounds and trailheads are closed.
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