Bryce Fire fire chars 850 acres in eastern Arizona, 25% contained

May 13, 2025 WOL

Officials said the fire continues to produce extreme fire behavior.

PIMA, Ariz. — A fire in Graham County has burned approximately 3,137 acres and is just 29% contained, according to the Arizona Department of Forestry and Fire Management.

Residents in the river corridor in the Fort Thomas area who were previously on SET evacuation status have been lowered to READY status.

The READY order includes residents in the river corridor in the Fort Thomas area and residents between Eden Road and Fort Thomas.

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Latest fire updates:

The Bryce Fire, which officials said started on May 7 and is human-caused, is 3 miles west of Pima along U.S. 70. Windy conditions have caused the fire to quickly grow.

Crews are working keep the fire out of Fort Thomas and keep it north of U.S. 70.

The fire is burning within the Gila River bottom near the community of Eden in dense Tamarisk stands, officials said.

“Tamarisk, or salt cedar, is an invasive species that is highly flammable, making suppression efforts challenging. The plant can create extreme fire behavior and when it burns, it produces thick, black smoke,” officials said.

Approximately 287 personnel are assigned to the fire.

Officials said the fire continues to produce extreme fire behavior and stayed active on Sunday and is being wind-driven.

U.S. 70 is open, but that could change as fire activity picks up, officials said. Drivers traveling between Fort Thomas and Pima should use caution for the potential of drifting smoke.

The Pinal County Public Health and Office of Emergency Management said some of the smoke is causing decreased visibility and is affecting air quality near Superior and Queen Valley. Officials suggest those with sensitivities or respiratory issues should remain inside with windows and doors closed.