Post Fire: Wildfire near Benson temporarily shuts down highway, evacuations lifted

BENSON, Ariz. - Hundreds of firefighters were called to battle the Post Fire, a wildfire burning south of Benson.

The 921-acre fire was driven by wind and is at 94% containment as of Sunday afternoon.

The fire was originally reported at 10 acres just before 2 p.m. on Thursday and ballooned in size to 620 acres by 4:30 p.m.

Evacuations had been in place for communities in the area, but those have since been lifted. 

"All areas should be vigilant and remain in READY status, being prepared for any issues, until fire is completely out," said the Cochise County Sheriff's Office.

Power outages were reported in the area, including at Kartchner Caverns.

More than 200 personnel have been called to respond to the fire.

State Route 90 was closed between I-10 and SR 82, but one lane has reopened in both directions.

Forest officials say the fire was human-caused and was related to mechanical use.