FLAGSTAFF — At zero containment, the Tunnel Fire located 14 miles northeast of Flagstaff has grown substantially due to high winds and spread toward the northeast at high rate, eventually moving across U.S. Highway 89.

Fire managers currently estimate the fire to be approximately 6,000 acres, and more than 200 firefighters and personnel are currently assigned to the fire.

Area evacuations have been ordered, and up-to-date evacuation information can be found via the Coconino County Tunnel Fire page. Evacuees can also call the Coconino County Emergency Call Center at 928-679-8525. Coconino County Supervisors have declared a State of Emergency and are awaiting the signature of the Governor.

Structures threatened include the community in Doney Park near the fire, and we cannot confirm as of this news release whether or not any homes have been destroyed.

Current firefighting resources include five handcrews, 15 engines, and three dozers. Air tankers were ordered earlier this afternoon to aid in the firefight but were diverted due to high winds that surpassed wind thresholds for air resource purposes. Partner agencies such as Flagstaff Fire Department, Summit FD, Highlands FD, and state crews have also aided in intial and continued response.

A Type I Incident Management Team has been ordered and personnel, assets and resources from the team will arrive over the next two days.

U.S Highway 89 is closed between mileposts 425-435, so motorists traveling toward Page will need to find an alternate route.