Firefighters made major progress overnight on the Hazen Fire burning in southwest Buckeye, with containment climbing to 45% as crews continue battling the blaze along the Gila River bottom.
The wildfire has now scorched 1,138 acres, primarily in dense vegetation and washes, according to the Arizona Department of Forestry and Fire Management.
“Do not go past closed signs, gates or roadblocks,” said DFFM Incident Contact Tiffany Davila in a statement. “Fire behavior can change at any time, and non-emergency traffic is impeding firefighter access and suppression operations.”
Law enforcement remains in the area and may issue citations to those ignoring closures.
Crews Strengthening Containment Lines
Firefighters are now focusing on reinforcing containment lines and preventing further spread, especially along the east side of the fire. Crews are continuing “firing operations,” a tactic that involves intentionally burning vegetation ahead of the wildfire to remove fuel.
Officials say smoke visible Wednesday is likely from unburned pockets of vegetation inside the fire perimeter being consumed — not new fire growth.
Aircraft that have been assisting with water drops remain on standby if conditions worsen.
Meanwhile, utility crews with Arizona Public Service have begun work to repair damaged power lines in the fire zone.
Fire Growth and Challenges
The Hazen Fire has grown steadily over the past several days:
- Early Monday: 980 acres, 0% containment
- Tuesday morning: 992 acres, 10% containment
- Tuesday afternoon: 1,049 acres following controlled burns
- Wednesday: 1,138 acres, 45% containment
Fire behavior intensified earlier in the week due to dry conditions, gusty winds up to 30 mph, and thick stands of salt cedar — a highly flammable plant that burns hot and spreads quickly.
Crews have battled difficult terrain while constructing fire lines and conducting strategic burnouts to slow the blaze.
Ongoing Restrictions and Safety Concerns
A Temporary Flight Restriction remains in place over the fire, limiting airspace to firefighting aircraft only.
No evacuation orders have been issued, but officials say residents should remain alert and be prepared to leave if conditions change.
Air quality in the Buckeye area has also been impacted, with smoke prompting warnings for sensitive groups to limit time outdoors.
What’s Next
Fire crews will continue patrolling contained areas for hotspots while strengthening fire lines. Officials stress that keeping the public out of the area is critical to maintaining momentum.
The cause of the fire remains under investigation.
