An emergency closure order has been in place since Dec. 18 for much of the Tonto and Apache-Sitgreaves National Forest trails and recreation sites.

Months without substantial rain or snow, high winds, and dead brush blanketing the desert floor are all creating potentially risky situations for fires in the state.

The Horton Fire, which has been burning along the Mogollon Rim northeast of Payson for more than a month, is now 89% contained. Eight crews have made significant progress recently. On Jan. 6, the ...