Pinal County community upgraded to ‘SET’ status due to Whitlow Fire

QUEEN VALLEY, AZ (AZFamily) — A small Pinal County community is being told to prepare for possible evacuations due to a wildfire that started on Saturday morning.

According to the Pinal County Sheriff's Office, a fire broke out around 11:30 a.m. near the river banks west of Hewitt Station Road and Forest Road 3493 . The blaze is roughly four miles outside of Queen Valley, which is 18 miles west of Superior.

The town has been upgraded to SET evacuation status. According to Tonto National Forest officials, the fire has burned 100 acres so far.

Five engines, a Phoenix handcrew and members of the Mesa hotshots are working to contain the blaze. A Type 1 helicopter and two air tankers has been requested to assist ground crews.

Residents should follow the tips below:

Residents should consider voluntarily relocating to a shelter or with family/friends outside the affected area. Residents should avoid close contact with those who are sick and should practice public health recommendations when relocating.

Grab your emergency go kit.

Keep in mind unique needs for your family or special equipment for pets and livestock.

Stay aware of the latest news and information from public safety and public health officials.

Investigators are working to determine the cause of the fire. .