Saturday evening traffic on the eastbound Loop 202 near McClintock Drive in Tempe turned into a slow-motion crawl as a brush fire lit up the roadside and pumped thick smoke across the freeway. Drivers reported heavy smoke and sluggish traffic while multiple fire units hustled in to knock down the flames.
What we know
Fire crews responded to the scene as the blaze showed up clearly on Arizona Department of Transportation traffic cameras at Loop 202 and McClintock Drive, according to 12 News. The outlet, which credited ADOT for the camera images, reported that crews were working to contain the fire while officials held back details on any injuries or a possible cause.
Traffic and response
Eastbound traffic through the stretch slowed as firefighters operated near the freeway, and some motorists tiptoed past the smoke while watching hoses and rigs on the shoulder. Drivers can check live camera feeds and travel advisories for current conditions through the Arizona Department of Transportation, according to ADOT. Anyone heading across the East Valley should plan for delays and have a backup route ready until the area is fully cleared.
Why this happens
Fires that ignite next to Valley freeways often trace back to vehicle issues or tossed smoking materials, and dry brush along the road can turn a small spark into a fast-moving problem. A similar incident last October involved a Valley Metro bus that caught fire near Loop 202 and Priest Drive and was captured on ADOT cameras, as AZFamily reported. Fire officials say spotting trouble early and keeping vehicles in solid working order helps cut down on these roadside flare-ups.
How to stay updated
Officials with Tempe Fire and ADOT are expected to share updates as the response and any investigation move forward. Motorists should keep an eye on ADOT's AZ511 traveler site along with local news feeds for the latest information. For now, it is best to steer clear of the Loop 202 at McClintock if you can, and follow directions from emergency crews guiding traffic through the smoke.
