Locals react to Broadway Fire near Arizona-California border

PALO VERDE, Calif. (KYMA, KECY) - A wildfire burning near the Arizona-California border has forced the closure of Oxbow Campground and nearby areas, according to the Bureau of Land Management (BLM).

The Broadway Fire began Wednesday night and has burned more than 700 acres so far. The fire is located just south of Blythe, near the Oxbow Campground.

The flames continue to threaten structures and infrastructure. Officials are urging the public to stay clear of the area as firefighting crews remain on the scene through the weekend.

Local residents say the fire felt different from others in the past.

"It was big...I mean, I've never...I mean, we've seen like flames like that before, but it usually is farther down the river on the Arizona side. But not on this side of California," said Jerry Bradford, a local resident.

Some say the damage could have been prevented. Longtime fishermen and residents tell us the area where the fire broke out has been a known risk for years.

"There's a lot of trash and debris over there 'cause I fish there, and there's this fence enclosure with just tons of trash and debris," said Brian Redman, a local fisherman.

Others expressed concern over how long it took for help to arrive.

"The fireman who came up to the park told me they just lack resources. That's why it took so long, even though we still have a fire department right there," said Terri O’Brien, a nearby resident.

While containment efforts continue, neighbors say this fire should serve as a warning, and they hope cleanup and prevention efforts will happen sooner next time.

KYMA will continue to monitor closures and conditions as the fire continues to burn.