A landfill fire broke out near Udall Park in Tucson on Monday, prompting evacuations and road closures in the area. The Tucson Fire Department (TFD) is treating the situation as a potential hazardous materials (hazmat) incident due to heavy smoke and reports of possible explosions.
Tucson Fire Department responds
Tucson Fire Department wrote on X, “Tucson Fire is on the scene of a landfill fire near Udall Park. Due to the location we are treating it as a possible hazmat situation. There is heavy smoke in the area and part of the park has been evacuated. Sabino Canyon Road is closed from Kolb to Tanque Verde. Please avoid the area.”
Also Read: Omaha fire: Smoke visible from I-80 as huge blaze erupts in Nebraska, videos emerge
City councilman provides update
Paul Cunningham, Ward 2 City Councilman, shared additional information via Facebook after speaking with Captain Barrett Baker of the Tucson Fire Department
“Udall Park was evacuated due to hazardous materials fire at an old dump. Possibly methane leak and small explosions reported by firefighter,” he wrote.
{{/usCountry}}“Udall Park was evacuated due to hazardous materials fire at an old dump. Possibly methane leak and small explosions reported by firefighter,” he wrote.
{{/usCountry}}“We are evacuating the park to try to keep people out of the smoke area and as a precautionary measure. The fire potentially involves a large propane tank so we’ve also have our hazardous materials units on scene,” he added. “The situation seems to be under control, but there’s a lot of precautions taking place to ensure everyone’s safety.”
Cunningham also spoke with Lt. Jesse Chamberlain of the Tucson Police Department, who confirmed that the cause of the fire remains unknown at this time. However, he noted that the evacuation was conducted smoothly and without any major issues.
As of now, Sabino Canyon Road is closed from Kolb Road to Tanque Verde Road, and drivers are advised to avoid the area. Traffic around Udall Park will be affected until the scene is fully cleared and deemed safe.