There were several fires along highways and the interstate over the weekend. Sunday there was a fire along I-17 near Black Canyon City that forced the closure of the southbound lanes for several hours. The fire forced a lengthy backup of traffic that took well into the night to clear. Motorists are reminded to have their summer emergency kits with them for these types of closures. Extra food and water is recommended. DPS Troopers and an off duty hot shot member were first on the scene of a brush fire at the I-40/I-17 Interchange in Flagstaff Sunday afternoon. Flagstaff Fire crews responded and the fire was kept from spreading across I-17 and encroaching on NAU. The cause was linked to a cigarette that had been thrown out a window. YCSO and fire crews responded to the Pan Fire 8-miles south of Seligman. Officials say the fire threatened nearby structures, but crews stopped the forward progress of the blaze at 50-acres. Tonto National Forest crews worked the Potato Fire along Highway-87 Sunday. As of last night it was 30% contained. The public is reminded of the “One Less Spark/One Less Wildfire” campaign. Due to these being roadside fires, the cause can likely be linked to a discarded cigarette or dragging chains.
