Horton Fire Containment Reaches 80%; Management Transitions to Type 3 Team

Highlights:

The management of the Horton Fire transitioned to a Type 3 team with the Tonto National Forest at 7 a.m. today. Yesterday, crews strengthened containment lines to a depth of nearly 200 feet along the powerline corridor. Mop-up operations and suppression repair continue throughout the affected area, and the forest closure order has been updated to reflect current conditions.

Operations:

Crews will focus on backhauling excess equipment and continuing suppression repair across all areas. Graders will be deployed to improve roads affected by fire suppression activities. Along the southern perimeter, crews are working to clear snags along roads and trails that could pose risks to public safety. Fire traffic will remain active along SR-260, and travelers are urged to drive cautiously.

Weather:

Light winds and cool temperatures are forecasted for the next few days, with colder and gustier conditions expected along the rim compared to lower elevations.

Smoke:

Smoke may still be visible in the area as internal pockets of vegetation continue to burn well within the fire footprint. For updates on local smoke impacts, visit Wildland Fire Smoke Outlooks.

Temporary Flight Restriction (TFR):

TFR 5/1983 remains in place for the Horton Fire through January 31, 2025. Intrusions into the restricted area jeopardize firefighter safety and operations. For details, visit FAA TFR Information.

Evacuations:

As of January 10, 2025, all communities have returned to READY evacuation status. Firefighters continue working in the area, and public safety remains a priority. The public is asked to avoid the area to support firefighting efforts. For updates, visit Gila County Public Health & Emergency Management Facebook.

Forest Orders:

The forest closure order was revised on January 13, 2025, reflecting improved fire conditions. Forest Order 03-12-00-25-02 is in place to protect public health and safety, as well as firefighting personnel. For more details on the updated closure, visit Tonto National Forest Alerts and Notices.

Road Closures:

Travelers are encouraged to check roadway conditions and status updates at the Arizona Department of Transportation.

Fire Details:

• Size: 8,346 acres
• Start Date: December 14, 2024
• Cause: Under Investigation
• Location: Payson Ranger District, Arizona
• Containment: 80%
• Personnel: 237
• Fuels: Timber, chaparral
• Resources: 2 crews, 7 engines, 1 helicopter, 1 bulldozer, 1 water tender

Information Links and Contacts:

• Phone: (602) 551-7327 (8 a.m. - 8 p.m.)
• Email: [email protected]
• Inciweb: Horton Fire Incident Information
• Facebook: Tonto National Forest Facebook