Arizona Wildfires 2011: Is There Recovery?

Arizona continues to endure several devastating wildfires, including the largest wildfire in the state's history. Fires in the Northeastern and Southeastern regions of the state have been burning since late May and have destroyed over 750,000 acres. While the authorities continue to battle the fires, some details on the causes of the fires are beginning to be revealed.

Wallow Fire

The Wallow Fire originated in Northeast Arizona within the Bear Wallow Wilderness located in the Apache National Forest on May 29, 2011. With strong winds reportedly reaching 60 miles an hour, and dry conditions in the forest, the fire has aggressively spread over 510,000 acres and reportedly consumed more than 747 square miles, ranking the fire as the largest wildfire in the state's history. The fire has destroyed more than 70 structures, including reports of 32 residences. The fire has caused damages and evacuations in several communities, including Alpine, Greer, Nutrioso, Sunrise, and