CAVE CREEK, AZ — Firefighters persist in battling the Horse Fire, which erupted in the Tonto National Forest on May 5th, scorching hundreds of acres in its wake.

Current Status and Location

The Horse Fire, situated off Horseshoe Lake Road within the Cave Creek Ranger District, approximately 15 miles northeast of Cave Creek, has ravaged 512 acres of land, with containment efforts reaching 50% as of Monday evening.

Intensive Efforts on Ground and Air

Deploying a multi-pronged approach, firefighting crews employ three helicopters to combat the flames from above, supplemented by eight engines and three teams on the ground. Helicopters have deployed retardant to establish a defensive line north of the fire zone.

Area Restrictions and Road Closures

Forest authorities urge the public to steer clear of the Horseshoe Dam Road and Lake vicinity during ongoing firefighting operations. A road closure along Horseshoe Dam Road, stretching from Bartlett Dam Road, remains in effect until June 7, 2024, at 6 p.m., barring rescission.

Weather Conditions and Fire Origins

While fire conditions may briefly intensify on Saturday due to dry and breezy weather, officials confirm that the fire, caused by human activity, has seen forward progress halted, though interior smoldering persists.

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