Wellton fire now claims 250 arces of land

Following the massive fire that erupted Monday evening in Wellton, 250 acres have been scorched as of Tuesday.

According to Wellton-Mohawk Irrigation and Drainage District, the fire began around 6:30 p.m. Monday.

Wellton Fire Department, Tacna Volunteer Fire, and Yuma County Sheriff’s Office also responded to the incident.

Wellton-Mohawk Irrigation and Drainage District warns to be careful if you are out by the river bottom because fires start easily there. Those that live in the area should stay inside, use a mask, and close up your home.

Authorities said that fire breaks help stop the fire as it helps contain it. They take a bulldozer, run over the brush and mash it down to keep flames low on the ground. This process helps the fire burn itself out.

There were no injuries reported and smoke is spreading to the Foothills area.

As of 12:30 p.m. Tuesday, the fire had been 60 percent contained and no buildings were damaged.

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