The largest blaze so far in the Gila National Forest this fire season grew by nearly 20,000 acres over the weekend and another 8,000 Monday to over 73,000 acres of Gila Wilderness land.
The Johnson Fire was ignited by lightning and has been burning since May 20, 11 miles west of the Gila Cliff Dwellings National Monument. Size estimations were updated after an infrared flight Sunday and Monday evenings. As of Tuesday morning, the wildfire is burning an estimated 73,069 acres with 11% of the perimeter contained.
Fire activity was reported from all sides Saturday, but overcast weather Sunday and intermittent showers slowed activity. Weather in the area was expected to be sunny Monday with highs ranging from 90 to 103 degrees, depending on the elevation. There was also a slight chance for rain.