PHOENIX — A fast-moving wildfire in northeast Arizona has prompted evacuation orders and road closures as it scorches Navajo Nation land in Apache County. The Oak Ridge Fire, first reported around 1:48 p.m. Saturday, has burned over 800 acres as of Sunday morning and remains completely uncontained.
The fire began southwest of Window Rock, allegedly sparked by two wood haulers cutting fresh oak, according to Navajo Nation President Buu Nygren. Dry conditions and strong winds have helped fuel the blaze, which continues to threaten nearby communities and infrastructure.
Emergency response teams moved quickly, with 55 firefighters deployed to the area. While no injuries or deaths have been reported, fire crews are facing difficult terrain and unpredictable weather as they try to slow the fire’s spread.
Evacuation Orders and Road Closures in Effect
Several residents have already been ordered to evacuate under the “GO” status of Arizona’s emergency alert system. Others in the region remain in “READY” status, indicating they should remain alert and be prepared to evacuate if conditions worsen.
Evacuations were issued Saturday night for homes along roads 603, 604, 605, and the Navajo Telecommunications Road in the St. Michaels area. On Sunday morning, additional areas—including Hunters Point—were placed in the “READY” phase, with authorities urging caution and preparedness.
An evacuation shelter has been established at the Bee Hółdzil Fighting Scouts Events Center in Fort Defiance, located near Window Rock High School. The center is open and equipped to assist displaced residents and first responders.
Livestock from affected areas are being relocated to the Window Rock Fairgrounds.
Fire Zone Closures and Safety Warnings
Pine Springs Road, which branches off Arizona Highway 264, is closed to traffic. Authorities are asking motorists driving along Highway 264 to exercise extreme caution and to avoid parking along the highway shoulders, which are needed for emergency access.
There is heightened concern near the El Paso Gas station, which sits east of the fire zone. Officials have warned that if the flames cross the one-mile buffer near Navajo Route 12, families in that area will be required to evacuate immediately.
Stage 1 Fire Restrictions are currently in effect across the area, meaning all open burning is prohibited and extreme caution is advised when using outdoor equipment or camping.
President Nygren has issued a public safety advisory urging residents not to enter the fire zone or attempt to assist in firefighting efforts on their own.
“Families and the public are being asked not to self-deploy and are urged not to go near the fire zones,” Nygren posted on Facebook. “Some are creating public safety concerns.”
Fire officials continue to monitor the situation and will provide updates as containment efforts progress.