Buckeye, AZ – Drivers traveling through southwest Maricopa County are facing major disruptions Saturday evening after a brush fire forced the full closure of State Route 85 near Buckeye.
According to the Arizona Department of Transportation, both northbound and southbound lanes of SR 85 were shut down around 5:16 p.m. Saturday near the Gila River as emergency crews respond to the growing fire. Officials say the closure affects a key corridor connecting Interstate 10 to areas further south, impacting regional travel.
Motorists are being urged to expect delays and avoid the area entirely. Traffic is being diverted away from the closure zone, though no specific detour routes have been confirmed. The fire’s proximity to the roadway and reduced visibility from heavy smoke prompted the full shutdown as a safety precaution.
Images released from the scene show thick black smoke rising over desert terrain, with visible flames moving across brush near the highway. Fire crews remain on-site working to contain the blaze, though conditions such as wind and dry vegetation may complicate efforts.
At this time, there is no estimated timeline for when SR 85 will reopen. Drivers planning travel through the Buckeye area are advised to monitor official updates and consider alternate routes well in advance.
The closure adds to growing concerns over fire activity across Arizona as temperatures rise and dry conditions persist heading into late spring.
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