Pipeline Fire burns over 4,000 acres, forces evacuations

(KYMA, KECY/ CNN) - Evacuations are in effect in parts of northern Arizona as about 80 firefighters are battling a new wildfire north of Flagstaff.

The so-called Pipeline Fire began Sunday morning just west of Schultz Pass and has burned approximately 4,000-5,000 acres by late Sunday, pushing about 15 miles.

Authorities in Coconino County say campers and hikers near the pass should evacuate the area immediately.

In connection with the fire, Forest Service law enforcement said they have arrested and charged a 57-year-old man with natural resource violations. The cause of the wildfire wasn’t immediately known.

But still, the wildfire is under investigation.

The Arizona Department of Transportation has closed U.S. Route 89. The department said in a twitter post that there is no estimated time to reopen the road.