The Oak Ridge Fire in Apache County, Arizona, has rapidly expanded since igniting on June 28, 2025. Initially reported at 10 acres, the wildfire grew to over 10,800 acres by July 6, with containment efforts gradually improving to 26% by that date and reaching 75% containment by July 8. The fire burned near the Navajo Nation capital of St. Michaels, prompting evacuation orders for local residents and the Navajo community. At its peak, more than 400 fire personnel were engaged in firefighting operations, supported by multiple crews and air support. The Navajo Nation declared a state of emergency due to the fire's impact. Strategic firing operations were employed to reduce fuel and control the blaze. Separately, wildfires in the western United States have forced evacuations at several national parks, including the Grand Canyon National Park in Arizona and Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park in Colorado. The White Sage Fire near the Grand Canyon's North Rim grew to approximately 8,700 acres, leading to evacuation orders for visitors and staff. These developments reflect ongoing wildfire challenges in the region amid dry conditions and strong winds.
“Some U.S. parks evacuated due to wildfires, including Grand Canyon” https://t.co/6679ZsplVv - @globalnews #Arizona #AZFire #BlackCanyonoftheGunnisonNP #COFire #Colorado #GrandCanyon #USNews #Wildfires
Wildfire grows to 8,700 acres on the North Rim of the Grand Canyon ... evacuation orders remain in place. https://t.co/r6RGEhX03U #8NN
Wildfires force evacuations at Grand Canyon and Black Canyon of the Gunnison parks https://t.co/0x5WLYnmsr