Strong winds could hamper Monday firefighting efforts on Hazen Fire

The Hazen Fire southwest of Buckeye has now burned 980 acres and remains 0% contained as of early Monday morning, according to the Arizona Department of Forestry and Fire Management.

Fire activity continued overnight, with the blaze advancing approximately half a mile to one mile to the north and northeast, DFFM officials stated.

The cause of the fire is still undetermined.

The fire is moving through dense stands of salt cedar, a type of vegetation that presents significant challenges for firefighting crews, accordingto DFFM officials.

Salt cedar grows in thick, tangled clusters that limit access for personnel and equipment, while also containing heavy amounts of dry fuel, conditions that allow the fire to burn intensely, spread through the canopy, and produce heavy smoke.

Fire officials said salt cedar increases the risk of “spotting,” where embers are carried ahead of the main fire, potentially igniting new areas — especially under gusty wind conditions.

Crews are working to identify safe opportunities to build containment lines, using roads and natural barriers where possible, and coordinating with aircraft when conditions allow.

A Temporary Flight Restriction (TFR) remains in place over the fire area. Authorities emphasize that unauthorized aircraft, including drones, are prohibited and could force firefighting aircraft to be grounded, delaying suppression efforts.

Firefighters reported success Sunday with a burnout operation along State Route 85, helping secure the fire’s western edge. However, winds created spotting issues on the northern and northeastern flanks, which persisted into the night, according to the DFFM statement on Monday.

Crews are focusing on constructing additional dozer and hand lines ahead of the fire while reinforcing containment lines established the previous day. Wind gusts up to 30 mph are expected, which could complicate suppression efforts.

Additional resources have been ordered, including a dozer, a strike team of engines and a hand crew, DFFM officials stated.

While no evacuation orders have been issued, DFFM officials note that residents in the area may choose to leave voluntarily based on personal comfort.

According to the Arizona Department of Transportation, roads in the area remain open.

Air Quality

Smoke in the air throughout Buckey ask prompted AccuWeather to issue an Air Quality rating of Poor.

"The air has reached a high level of pollution and is unhealthy for sensitive groups," AccuWeather's report states. "Reduce time spent outside if you are feeling symptoms such as difficulty breathing or throat irritation."