The Rose Fire may have only burned a few hundred acres, but the devastation it left behind was immeasurable as it destroyed several homes in its path.
Located in Wickenburg, Arizona, fire officials have finally determined the cause of the destructive Rose Fire that ravaged the area in June.
The fire originated on June 12, south-west of Wickenburg along the east side of US 60. Evacuations were enforced, and the highway was closed as the fire spread across 266 acres before being successfully contained after five days.
Tragically, the fire claimed seven primary residences and various other structures, vehicles, and outbuildings.
Investigations have revealed that the Rose Fire was ignited by railroad maintenance operations in the vicinity. The Department of Forestry and Fire Management confirmed that a section of cut railroad track on the BNSF rail line served as the ignition point.
The fire is believed to have been caused by sparks from hot work or the use of welding, grinding, or torching equipment. The suppression costs alone amounted to nearly $1 million.
With over 80% of wildfires in Arizona being human-caused, it is crucial to follow fire prevention guidelines. These include checking weather conditions, having firefighting tools on hand, and being cautious with machinery that can spark fires.
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