SR-87 South Of Payson Closed: Major Brush Fire Update From ADOT

David

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Post on Jun 13, 2025

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SR-87 South of Payson Closed: Major Brush Fire Forces Highway Shutdown – ADOT Update

A major brush fire raging south of Payson, Arizona has forced the closure of State Route 87 (SR-87), causing significant travel disruptions and prompting urgent evacuations. The Arizona Department of Transportation (ADOT) announced the closure late this afternoon, urging drivers to avoid the area and seek alternate routes. This rapidly evolving situation presents a serious challenge for firefighters battling the blaze and for residents in the impacted zone.

The fire, which officials believe started [insert time and suspected cause if available], has spread rapidly due to high winds and dry conditions. The exact acreage burned is currently being assessed, but early reports indicate a significant area is already affected. Thick smoke is severely reducing visibility, making firefighting efforts even more challenging.

Evacuation Orders and Road Closures

ADOT has closed SR-87 southbound from milepost 251 to milepost 243. Northbound traffic is also experiencing delays. Multiple neighborhoods south of Payson are under mandatory evacuation orders, with residents urged to follow instructions from local authorities. [Insert specific neighborhood names if available]. Check the [link to official county website or emergency services page] for the most up-to-date evacuation information.

For those needing to travel through the area, ADOT recommends considering alternative routes such as:

• US Route 60: While adding considerable travel time, US 60 offers a bypass around the affected region.
• State Route 260: Depending on your final destination, SR-260 might provide a viable detour.

Remember to check current road conditions and potential closures before embarking on your journey via the ADOT website or mobile app. [link to ADOT website and app download links].

Firefighting Efforts and Community Support

Fire crews from multiple agencies are working tirelessly to contain the blaze. Air support, including helicopters and air tankers, are being deployed to drop water and retardant on the fire's perimeter. Local communities are rallying to support firefighters and those displaced by the evacuations. [Mention any community support efforts, such as donation drives or volunteer organizations if available].

It's crucial to:

• Stay informed: Monitor official news channels and ADOT for updates.
• Respect closures: Do not attempt to travel through closed roads. This endangers both yourself and emergency responders.
• Obey evacuation orders: Your safety is paramount. Evacuate immediately if instructed to do so.

Long-Term Impacts and Recovery

The full extent of the damage caused by this wildfire will not be known for some time. The fire's impact on the environment, infrastructure, and local communities will require extensive assessment and a significant recovery effort. ADOT is working to assess the damage to SR-87 and will provide updates on the road's reopening as soon as possible. We will continue to update this article as more information becomes available.

Stay tuned to this page and follow official sources for the latest developments on the SR-87 closure and the Payson brush fire. This is a rapidly evolving situation, and your safety is our top priority. Remember to share this information with anyone who might be traveling through the area.

Keywords: SR-87 closure, Payson brush fire, ADOT, Arizona wildfire, road closure, evacuation orders, highway closure, fire update, travel advisory, Arizona Department of Transportation.