Wildfire Near Greer, Arizona forces evacuations as It spreads over 1,200 Acres
As flames race through Arizona’s high country, the Greer Fire has forced urgent evacuations and reignited fears of another historic disaster—just miles from where the devastating Wallow Fire burned over 500,000 acres.
A wildfire called the Greer Fire recently ignited in eastern Arizona and quickly spread to 2,500 acres which required mandatory evacuation of residents from Greer and South Fork. The fire has already destroyed buildings and a "GO" evacuation order has been passed for residents living in the affected area. Towns of Eagar and Springerville have announced they are in a joint state of emergency. An evacuation center was set up at Round Valley High School Dome in Eagar. Areas of the Round Valley Rodeo Grounds in Springerville will also be available for RVs and large animals evacuees. In addition, State Route 260 is closed for a distance from milepost385 to 396 near Greer.
Officials say the Greer Fire is still under investigation, and there are no injuries reported at this time. The Greer area, per Navopache Electric Cooperative, has lost power from the fire. Law enforcement officials are going door to door in Eagar informing residents that they are under a "SET" status to be ready for possible evacuation. The Greer Fire rapidly burned and is concerning local officials and residents in proximity to populated communities. Fire crews are still working to contain the fire and protect people and property.
Greer Fire near historic wallow fire spurs urgent evacuations as dry winds fuel Arizona's largest Wildfire threat
The Wallow Fire is the largest in Arizona history with an estimated burn area of more than 500,000 acres. The significance of these historical events help support the urgency behind the current situation and the need to act swiftly in this event to avoid similar catastrophic damage. It is important for the local community to keep abreast of developments through official sources, and to comply with evacuation orders and safety recommendations. The combination of extended dry conditions with high winds make the situation even more concerning, and as a community everyone should be aware of the situation and the conditions during wildfire season.
The safety of residents and firefighters remains the top priority as firefighting operations continue. Coordination of resources and supporting services have been deployed as authorities assist citizens directly afflicted by the Greer Fire. Fire incident updates, evacuation notices, and available resources and assistance will continue to be provided to the public via local media and emergency managers as evacuation notices and fire status change. Citizens are encouraged to monitor these sources regularly as updates are made available.
Red flag warnings issued as Greer Fire threatens Arizona; crews battle flames amid dangerous winds and low humidity
Due to the continuing threat, officials issued Red Flag Warnings and Wind Advisories in the area, all of which highlight critical fire weather. Especially in this region with strong winds and low humidity levels, and therefore a heightened risk of fire spread. Caution should be used in any activity again, as it can create another fire. Firefighting crews are tackling the fire from air and the ground, but their progress is hampered by the sustained severe weather. Community members are also asked to follow all the safety guidelines and leave if the evacuation order is issued to help.
The Greer Fire rages on May 13, 2025, near Greer and South Fork, Arizona. Photo: Arizona Department Of Forestry And Fire Management
The Greer Fire highlights the dangers of wildfires and reminds us that living in Arizona's dry and windy environment doesn't come without risk. As the situation evolves, it is important that residents, jurisdictions, and emergency services continue to work collaboratively to reduce potential harm from the fire. Residents in the impacted area should stay vigilant, prepared, and responsive to information provided through official channels. Collectively, we can ensure the health and safety of our community during this time. Residents looking for more information can check their local emergency management agency and news outlets.
