GALLERY
BUCKEYE WILDFIRES • 2026 Hazen Fire, pictured, stands as the largest and most disruptive event in recent years. • Fire departments from around the West Valley assist local and state fire crews in efforts to contain the Hazen Fire in South Buckeye.
• Buckeye fire activity is centered along the SR 85 / Gila River corridor. • Most incidents are fast-moving brush fires in dense vegetation. • Recovery impacts, especially along SR 85, can continue even after containment. • Since May 2 when the blaze begins, fire behavior is heavily influenced by fuel load, heat and invasive river-bottom grasses.
2019
2020
2021
2022
2023
2024
2026
2019–2026 Major Fire Activity Along the SR 85 / Gila River Corridor
Routine Fire Season • Typical brush and vegetation fires. • No significant corridor wildfire.
Statewide Fire Year (Not Local Impact) • Arizona experienced significant wildfire activity statewide. • No major Buckeye river corridor fire noted.
Minimal Local Fire Activity • Smaller brush fires • Routine seasonal response only
Limited Activity • No major named fires • Increased vegetation
BUCKEYE RIVER BOTTOM FIRE Date: June 22–23 Size: Approximately 260 acres Location: Gila River bottom / SR 85 corridor Cause: Believed to be human-related Impact: • Rapid spread in dense vegetation • Regional response • No major structures threatened
SR 85 BRUSH FIRE Date: Aug. 14 Size: Approximately 400 acres
HAZEN FIRE (LARGEST RECENT EVENT) Date: May 2–15 Size: 1,191 acres Location: Gila River bottom near Hazen & Rooks Roads Cause: Under investigation Impact:
growth following wetter conditions
Location: SR 85 near Hazen Road Cause: Suspected roadside ignition Impact: • Temporary highway closures • Heavy smoke • Short-duration suppression effort
• Largest fire in recent years • Significant smoke impacts • Required regional response resources
Source: Arizona Department of Forestry and Fire Management
InBuckeye.com | July/August 2026
July/August 2026 | InBuckeye.com
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