Crews increase containment of Stronghold Fire in southern Arizona

PHOENIX – Crews continue to increase containment of the Stronghold Fire in southern Arizona, authorities said.

The footprint of the Cochise County wildfire has been holding for several days at 2,138 acres. Containment was at 69% as of Saturday morning, up from 62% the previous morning.

The cause of the Stronghold Fire, which started Monday about 21 miles east of Benson, remains under investigation. About 212 firefighters are still assigned to the incident.

Crews have been working to protect homes and critical infrastructure within the fire’s perimeter as they work toward full suppression.

What is the status of Stronghold Fire evacuations?

All previous evacuation orders have been lifted, according to Friday morning’s incident report.

The Coronado National Forest Douglas Ranger District’s temporary occupancy and use area order is scheduled to remain in effect until May 11.

This is an updated version of a story originally published on April 30, 2025.

Related

Arizona leaders preparing prevention strategies ahead of wildfire seasonHere's how AI cameras are helping crews get a jump on Arizona wildfiresMan suspected of setting wildfire in Washington served time in Arizona for killing fatherPocket Fire burn scar keeps Slide Rock swimming area closed through SeptemberWith Pocket Fire near Sedona 100% contained, officials significantly reduce closure areaFire damage suspected in collapse of bridge over Colorado River in western Arizona