Another tire fire near Maricopa, a year since the last one

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Maricopa Fire Department responded last evening to a fire that continues to burn at a tire storage and recycling plant approximately 20 miles west of Maricopa on Highway 238.

The fire is concentrated and contained to a pit equivalent to the size of a football field with various piles of rubber tire recycling bi-product referred to as “Fluff.” The fire actually involves an area of material approximately 100 ft. X 150 ft.

There is no immediate danger to structures on the site or spreading to adjacent piles outside the immediate point of origin or to desert lands.

According to Arizona Department of Environmental Quality (ADEQ), “There is no chance of air quality pollution to the City of Maricopa from the present fire condition.” ADEQ is monitoring air quality at various locations.

The National Weather Service reported winds from the northeast today reaching 26-30 mph with low humidity (6%) and temperatures to reach 89 degrees.

A strategic operations meeting this morning consisting of various local county, state and federal agencies resulted in a plan to cover the fire with dirt beginning as soon as resources are available on site. The site continues to be secured by State Capital Police Agents.

It is reported an estimated 10 million tires may be on site at this location.

The cause of the fire continues to be investigated by the Office of the State Fire Marshal. The Governor’s office is continuing to monitor the situation closely. Officials from the City of Maricopa Fire Department have been asked to take part in the ongoing strategic planning and operations as requested.

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