Poco Fire grows near Young, threatens power lines

The Poco Fire near Young has grown to an estimated 8,100 acres Wednesday and remains to be only 15-percent contained.

The fire, which is in the Tonto National Forest, spread east and northwest rapidly Tuesday, causing damage to power lines that provide energy to the Phoenix and Tucson metro areas .

Fire officials say deep terrain and the hot temperatures are to blame for the large spread.

"In spite of very challenging conditions, firefighters continue to use good judgment to make wise decisions about implementing fireline strategies," said Incident Commander Matt Reidy.

Officials say there are 641 personnel fighting the fire, including members from 12 states like California, Idaho, Utah, New Mexico, Wyoming and Montana.

There will be a community meeting tonight at the Heber-Overgaard at the Mogollon High School gymnasium at 6 p.m. to provide residents with an update on the fire and to address concerns.

Forest Road 512 remains closed and part of the ranger district is closed east of Forest Road 200, south of Forest Road 291 and north of Forest Road 512.