SUNFLOWER, AZ — Sunflower residents are "ok to return home" after an evacuation order was lifted Sunday night, according to Maricopa County officials.
The evacuation order was put in place due to the "Diamond Fire."
The fire, burning along SR 87, is estimated to be over 5,150 acres as of Sunday morning, with 0% containment.
Diamond Fire Sunflower, Cross F and Diamond Ranch - GO order lifted 07/30 - 7:00 PM. OK to return home. Use Caution! Remain in SET: Prepare to Take Action!
— Maricopa County Dept of Emergency Mgmt (@MaricopaReady) July 31, 2023
For safety, roads remain closed to the general public.
Info at https://t.co/ve5c2DUBti and https://t.co/kOJrO9ise1 pic.twitter.com/C2XFL5ne2f
The Tonto National Forest issued an "Emergency Closure Order" that will remain in effect until the evening of August 7 due to the Diamond Fire. The closure could be rescinded prior to the expiration date.
Officials believe a lightning strike may have started the fire on July 22.
ABC15 is told 10 to 15 people have been evacuated due to the fire.
UPDATE: State Route 87 northbound has reopened. Southbound 87 is reduced to one lane at milepost 218.
— Arizona DOT (@ArizonaDOT) July 26, 2023
Sunflower, Arizona, is about 58 miles northeast of Phoenix and approximately 33 miles southwest of Payson.
Although it is called the Diamond Fire, this fire is unrelated to the Diamond Fire that burned in north Scottsdale.
