DUDLEYVILLE, AZ (3TV/CBS 5) – Residents of the small mining town of Dudleyville who were evacuated because of the Margo Fire returned to their homes, the Pinal County Sheriff's Office tweeted Saturday afternoon. "Continue to stay aware of the latest news and information from public safety officials," the tweet advised. Utility companies had to assess the damage to the area before the residents could be allowed back.
PHOTOS FROM THE SCENE:Â Margo Fire sparks evacuations in Dudleyville, southeast of Phoenix
The Arizona Department of Forestry and Fire Management tweeted Monday evening the fire was 100% contained at 1,148 acres. According to PCSO, 74 total structures were within the evacuation zone with 243 residents living in the area. Twelve structures were lost, officials said.
"Firefighters are working really hard in that community to save those structures that are impacted by this fire," said Tiffany Davila with the Arizona Department of Forestry and Fire Management.
Gas has been shut off for 178 homes in the Dudleyville area. No ETA for when it will be turned back on. pic.twitter.com/dH9UcsXrgY
— Pinal County Sheriff’s Office (@PinalCSO) April 8, 2021
Arizona Forestry said the Margo Fire is burning thick tamarisk in the river bottom. At its peak, about 75 personnel battled to contain the wildfire, including 10 engines, a Very Large Airtanker and a Large Airtanker. A VLAT, usually a DC-10, can carry and drop more than 8,000 gallons of fire retardant in a single run. A LAT can dump between 2,000 and 4,000 gallons.
There are no reports of injuries. It's believed the fire was human caused.
Dudleyville, which is about two hours southeast of Phoenix near Winkelman, was the site of the July 2017 Roach fire. That fire burned almost 1,200 acres and destroyed several structures, including homes. The mining town covers less than 7 square miles and is home to fewer than 1,000 people, according to the 2016 Census.
Margo Fire sparks evacuations in Dudleyville, southeast of Phoenix
The Margo Fire sparked Thursday afternoon near Dudleyville, causing all residents to be evacuated as of 2 p.m.Â
Pinal County Sheriff's Office said Dudleyville homes have been evacuated due to Margo Fire.Â
The Pinal County Sheriff's Office posted this map that shows the areas under evacuation orders as of 2 p.m. on Thursday, April 8.
