MARICOPA COUNTY, Ariz. - The Rose Fire burning in Wickenburg has wreaked havoc, destroying seven homes, prompting overnight evacuations, and temporarily closing the main highway between Phoenix and Las Vegas. Firefighters have been battling the flames, which have scorched the area since June 12, a fire official reported on Thursday.

By Thursday afternoon, US 60, a major highway that had been closed due to the fire, partially reopened, easing some of the travel disruptions caused by the blaze.

Tiffany Davila, a spokesperson for the Department of Forestry and Fire Management, stated that evacuation orders for residents were lifted before noon. The fire has burned 166 acres and is currently 20% contained. "In total, 15 structures were destroyed, seven of which were primary residences," Davila confirmed.

Davila credited a combination of factors for the progress in containing the fire. Cooler nighttime temperatures and a rise in humidity provided some natural assistance. Additionally, the arrival of about 200 local, state, and federal firefighters was pivotal. These firefighters, equipped with specialized gear and vehicles, have been working tirelessly to control the blaze. Aircraft have also been integral to the firefighting efforts, scooping water from a nearby reservoir to drop on the flames.

"As temperatures warm, we could see fire activity increase," Davila cautioned, highlighting the ongoing risk and the potential for the fire to regain strength during the hotter parts of the day.

The fire has occurred during a period of intense heat warnings, following several days of record-high temperatures across a broad swath of the U.S. Southwest. The extreme heat has exacerbated the fire conditions, making it more challenging for firefighting efforts. The National Weather Service predicts that the region may not see relief until early July, when monsoon rains are expected to arrive. These rains could potentially help to dampen the dry conditions that have fueled the fire.

Residents affected by the fire have been dealing with significant disruptions. Those who were evacuated had to find temporary shelter, often relying on community centers or staying with friends and family. The destruction of homes has been a devastating blow, with many residents losing everything they own.

Local authorities have been providing support to those affected, offering resources and assistance to help them navigate the aftermath of the fire. Community organizations have also stepped in, providing food, clothing, and other necessities to displaced residents.

The Rose Fire is one of several wildfires that have plagued the region in recent years, as prolonged drought conditions and increasing temperatures have made wildfires more frequent and intense. Fire management officials are urging residents to stay informed about fire conditions and to be prepared for potential evacuations in the future.

Currently, there are no evacuation orders in place for the Rose Fire, but residents are advised to remain vigilant and to follow any updates from local authorities. Firefighters will continue to work around the clock to contain the blaze and prevent further destruction.

The community of Wickenburg is rallying together in the face of this disaster, demonstrating resilience and solidarity as they work to recover from the fire's impact. As firefighting efforts continue, the hope is that containment will improve and the threat will diminish, allowing residents to begin the long process of rebuilding their lives.