A first-alarm fire broke out early Monday afternoon outside a commercial building located near 67th Avenue and Buckeye Road in west Phoenix. According to Phoenix Fire officials, the blaze involved wooden boxes of lithium-ion batteries that were intended for recycling. While smoke could be seen from miles away, the fire was fortunately contained to the outdoor area and did not spread to the adjacent building. Officials have reported no injuries and fire crews were anticipated to remain on the scene for an extended period of time. The cause of the fire is currently under investigation.
Meanwhile, to the east of the Valley, the natural forces of lightning have come to kindle the start of what is now being dubbed the Wood Fire. Tonto National Forest officials report that the wildfire, which ignited on early Sunday afternoon five miles southwest of Superior, has grown quickly to about 2,200 acres. The blaze was noted to have been particularly active overnight and continues to burn somewhat to effectively in a remote terrain, which is inaccessible to fire brigades on the ground.
As of the latest updates, no structures have been threatened by the Wood Fire. The Tonto National Forest officials have conducted flights over the area to map and estimate the fire's reach and to strategize their containment efforts. As the fire burns at low intensity and in areas difficult to reach, the response has been limited to one engine, an air attack unit, and other ground crews.
The Phoenix battery fire and the Wood Fire near Superior are reminders of the persistent risks that businesses and natural landscapes face from both human-made and natural occurrences. While the quick response from the fire departments has thus far managed to keep both fires from causing significant harm to structures or people, continuous vigilance will be key to finally mitigate any further risks. Investigations and containment efforts are likely to carry on as authorities thoroughly work to control and to eventually extinguish both fires, ensuring the safety of the surrounding communities.
