UPDATE
Firefighters stop forward progress of Watermelon Fire off I-17 just north of Sedona exit
Firefighters have stopped forward progress of the Watermelon Fire near milepost 303 and are working toward containment of what is now a 25-30 acre wildfire.
North and southbound traffic on I-17 near the wildfire has been stopped, and motorists planning to use I-17 in that area should check https://az511.gov regularly for updates on the status of the interstate.
This will be the final update on the Watermelon Fire unless new and significant information develops.
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(June 5, 2022) – Firefighters are responding to a wildfire 4 miles north of Sedona exit 298, at approximately milepost 303 on the northbound side of Interstate 17.
Reported at 2:50 p.m., the Watermelon Fire began from an RV which caught on fire and spread to Coconino National Forest land. It is currently reported to be five acres with a moderate rate of spread.
Resources on scene include a battalion, Hotshot crew, seven engines, two fire prevention patrol units, a fuels crew and law enforcement officer which comprises about 70 personnel in total.
Motorists traveling north on I-17 should be aware that northbound traffic on I-17 is currently closed. Check https://az511.gov for updates on the status of I-17.
More information will be shared as it is received.