Thunderbird Fire District Chief Allen Allcott was right when he told InMaricopa a tree farm inferno that sparked in late July would continue burning well into August.

A lightning strike launched the devastating blaze — the second in as many years — at Thunderbird Farms along North Warren Road south of West Pima Road July 30. Ash plumes rained into Maricopa residents’ lawns and pools as smoke was seen as far as Phoenix and Coolidge.

Crews from at least three municipal, rural and Indian fire departments contained the fire, which has ceased burning. But not before decimating the usually lush palm tree canopy and leaving behind a barren sea of skeletons.

InMaricopa captured the aftermath in a series of photos and videos:

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