Horton Fire burns 600 acres of forest northeast of Payson. Here's what

The Horton Fire northeast of Payson burned more than 600 acres of forest by Saturday and was 0% contained, according to the authorities with the Tonto National Forest.

Nearly 150 firefighters and personnel battled the wildfire that threatened nearby communities of Tonto Creek Estates, Tonto Christian Camp, Tonto Fish Hatcher and Zane Grey Cabins, which were on a pre-evacuation “set” status and must be prepared to leave at the notice of authorities.

The fire started Dec.14 and caused an emergency closure of the Apache-Sitgreaves National Forests and Tonto National Forest earlier this week.

The forest closures would remain in place through Jan. 31, 2025, according to authorities.

“The public is asked to avoid the fire area. The purpose of the closure order is to protect public health and safety during the Horton Fire, and to protect assigned firefighting personnel engaging in wildland firefighting operations,” read a Tonto National Forest statement.

The fire was under investigation but believed to be human-caused, burning acres of ponderosa pines and mixed conifer forest.

Authorities said smoke from the fire might be seen in the surrounding area for the next several days.

“Smoke will be heavier in the mornings as it settles into the lower elevations and will lift as temperatures increase,” read the statement.

Authorities recommended those with respiratory or heart problems take precautionary measures and avoid the area.

This article originally appeared on Arizona Republic: Here’s what we know about the Horton Fire burning near Payson

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