According to Inciweb, strong gusty winds developed overnight on Thursday, pushing the fire north and causing it to reach Kitt Peak on Friday.
The Contreras Fire, which started June 11 about 8 miles southeast of Kitt Peak National Observatory, reached the location of several astronomic facilities early Friday morning, according to a statement from the University of Arizona.
"We are grateful to all who are working to fight the fire and help protect the facilities while keeping everyone safe. We are also proud of our staff who did their best to prepare our facilities before they were ordered to leave the mountain on Wednesday," said University of Arizona president Robert Robbins.
Since the fire started, aviation resources and firefighting efforts have been limited. Smoke in the area, extremely dry fuels, high winds, and the steep and rugged terrain make it difficult to access, according to Inciweb. According to the University, damages to structures were not assessed on Friday because of the high fire activity in the area. Assessment of the Observatory was expected to start on Saturday if conditions allow for safe entry, according to Inciweb.
Brasil Últimas Notícias, Brasil Manchetes
Similar News:Você também pode ler notícias semelhantes a esta que coletamos de outras fontes de notícias.
LIVE UPDATES: Kitt Peak evacuated as Contreras Fire spreads more than 11,000 acresThe fire grew to 11,489 acres Thursday, state route 386 is closed.
Consulte Mais informação »
LIVE UPDATES: Contreras Fire reaches Kitt Peak Observatory siteThe fire reached the Kitt Peak Observatory site overnight. Firefighters engaged the blaze at 2 a.m. The Pan Tak community was sent into GO evacuation status.
Consulte Mais informação »
Contreras Fire moves through Kitt Peak ObservatoryThe Contreras fire is still uncontained, and challenging firefighters to control it. The fight is so difficult the fire is now rated the number one priority to wildland fires in the entire U-S. Part of the priority is the Kitt Peak Observatory—in the path of the fire.
Consulte Mais informação »
Kitt Peak Observatory, tribal community evacuated by fireFire officials said Friday the blaze’s growth northward prompted a decision to evacuate the community of Pan Tak on the Tohono O’odham Indian Reservation.
Consulte Mais informação »
Fire shuts down Kitt Peak National Observatory in ArizonaThe Contreras Fire covered more than 11,400 acres when the observatory was evacuated Thursday.
Consulte Mais informação »
Arizona wildfire reaches some of famed Kitt Peak's telescopesPotential damage to the site cannot be assessed while the fire rages.
Consulte Mais informação »