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Lizard Fire containment at 15 percent

One home destroyed
Posted at 9:35 PM, Jun 07, 2017
and last updated 2017-06-12 10:41:09-04

The Arizona Department of Forestry and Fire Management is assisting with the Lizard Fire that's burning in the Coronado National Forest.

The fire was started by lightning and has grown to 15,000 acres as of Sunday morning according to Lizard Fire Public Information Officer Carol Capas. 

Five hotshot teams and 25 engines are responding. In total, 600 firefighters are at the scene. The fire has 15 percent containment.

A community meeting will be held at 4:30 p.m. Sunday at the Sunsites Community Center located at 1216 Treasure Road.

A red flag warning is in effect Sunday between noon and 7:00 p.m.

Firefighters are making an effort to protect structures, including the Baptist Church Camp.

Evacuations have been ordered for the Dragoon and Cochise Stronghold communities. Residents should move out as soon as possible. 

The American Red Cross has set up an evacuation shelter and reception center at Valley Union High School located at 4088 E. Jefferson Rd., Elfrida.

The U.S. Forest Service said power lines are being threatened in the area and a small number of homes will be without power until the situation is under control.

One home and a few shed structures have been damaged so far.

A temporary flight restriction has been established over the area. This also applies to the use of drones.

Some Dragoon residents have evacuated. Those affected can call the Cochise County Sheriff's Office at 520-432-9500 for hotel vouchers.