5 Maricopa Fires Ignite Concerns Over an Unsettling Early Fire Season

Maricopa, AZ – Local firefighters have experienced a particularly active start to March, responding to multiple significant incidents over the past two weeks. Notably, they tackled a massive brushfire in the Saddleback Farms neighborhood on March 11, 2025. The blaze ignited from an illegal burn and rapidly expanded, fueled by high winds and dense vegetation, ultimately consuming six acres of land, including a junkyard.

The Maricopa Fire and Medical Department, alongside Ak-Chin and Chandler Fire Departments, efficiently contained the fire, but it serves as a concerning preview of a potentially severe wildfire season ahead. Last year, Pinal County experienced a troubling surge in wildfires, with 84 incidents recorded from April to May alone, resulting in 2,400 acres scorched—an alarming 54% increase from the previous year.

Tiffany Davila, spokesperson for the Arizona Department of Forestry and Fire Management, explained that persistent precipitation over recent years has led to an abundance of grass and brush. This was particularly evident in regions like Hidden Valley and Thunderbird Farms. In response to this rising trend, the county has begun issuing citations for violations of its burn ban.

Last year, Pinal County recorded a total of 194 wildfires, resulting in an extensive 36,000 acres burned, largely attributed to the accumulation of dry vegetation after years of insufficient burns. The current year is showing early signs of potentially increased fire activity, despite the recent rainfall that remains inadequate to alleviate extreme drought conditions in several areas.

Thunderbird Fire District Chief Allen Alcott voiced concerns that recent rains, while beneficial in the short term, could contribute to the growth of more weeds, which are expected to flourish in the weeks to come. “Four to six weeks after a rain, here come the weeds,” he stated, highlighting the cyclical nature of fire risks in the region.

As temperatures rise, lower-elevation areas such as Pinal County are already witnessing significant amounts of dried vegetation, including invasive species that could soon become highly flammable. Davila noted that many residents may be caught off guard while engaging in seasonal garden and yard activities, unaware of the fire hazards that may arise from seemingly benign actions.

Interestingly, the concept of a distinct “fire season” in Arizona is becoming increasingly irrelevant, as fire activity can now occur year-round, with incidents already reported in December and February. While it remains too early to predict this year’s wildfire trends, the possibility looms large in southeastern Arizona.

To better prepare for potential wildfires, residents are encouraged to take proactive measures: secure a burn permit and adhere to no-burn days, clear dead or overgrown vegetation, relocate flammable materials away from properties, and assemble a go-bag containing essential supplies.