A brush fire shut down both directions of Interstate 10 near the Colossal Cave/Wentworth Road exit at milepost 279 on Thursday, roughly 20 minutes east of Tucson, leaving the freeway at a standstill. Eastbound and westbound lanes were blocked, triggering major backups for commuters and long-distance travelers. The Arizona Department of Transportation later reported there was no estimated time to reopen the highway.
Arizona DOT Posts I-10 Closure
In a post on X, Arizona DOT announced that I-10 at milepost 279 was closed "due to a brush fire" and flagged nearby communities including Tucson, Sahuarita, Vail, Benson and Corona de Tucson. The agency did not provide any estimate for when the interstate might reopen.
Travelers: Check AZ511 for Live Conditions
ADOT is directing drivers to check real-time road conditions through the state's traveler information website and app, where live camera feeds and incident reports are available at AZ511. Motorists should expect delays along the I-10 corridor while crews work to contain the fire and should plan for extra travel time if they have to be on the road.
Why This Happens
Brush and dry fuels that line Arizona highways can let small fires spread quickly to the roadway, so closures like this are a recurring risk during the hotter months. Similar incidents have already disrupted major routes this season, for example, a June blaze that partially closed U.S. 93 near Wikieup, as reported by Arizona's Family.
What To Do Now
If you are traveling east of Tucson, consider delaying your trip or taking an alternate route and give yourself plenty of extra time. For the latest on the I-10 closure and any reopening updates, keep an eye on AZ511 and follow Arizona DOT's posts.
