Officials: Wildfire burning near Williams now 40 percent contained

WILLIAMS, AZ - Fire bosses running the assault on a forest fire near Williams say Mother Nature is cooperating and there's hope that crews may start to get a handle on the 3,400 acre blaze.

Wind gusts haven't climbed past 20 mph over the last few hours, making it easier for helicopters to do water drops to dose the flames.

On Thursday night, the Eagle Rock fire laid down, allowing the 300 firefighters on the scene to make progress in digging line and cutting off the wildfire's fuel supply.

Fire information officer Larry Tunforss said Friday that several people are being let back into their homes.

Burnout operations along with better mapping and some new growth has put a wildfire near Williams in northern Arizona at an estimated 3,415 acres.

The fire was reportedly 40 percent contained by Friday night.

According to ABC15 Meteorologist Amber Sullins, there are no Red Flag Warnings or Wind Advisories in the area on Friday. However, strong breezes are expected Friday and Saturday. Winds out of the south and southwest will be between 15 and 25 mph with gusts up to 35 mph.

Nearly all residents evacuated from their homes have been allowed to return. A Red Cross shelter has closed, but volunteers remain on standby.

Fire crews mopping up hot spots means others in the Spring Valley area still cannot go home.

The fire behavior was moderate Friday but winds that could quickly carry embers and expand the wildfire remain a concern. Authorities say the cause of the fire remains under investigation but lightning is suspected.