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ST. GEORGE — A wildfire near Scenic, Arizona, believed to be human-caused, burned an estimated 161 acres in the Virgin Mountains foothills but was largely contained by late Sunday afternoon, according to Beaver Dam-Littlefield Fire Battalion Chief Andre Ojeda.

Firefighters responded to the so-called “Elbow Canyon Fire” around 4:30 a.m., and say the blaze ignited about three miles east of Scenic Boulevard and Elbow Canyon.

Aiding the Beaver Dam-Littlefield Fire District were crews from Logandale and Mesquite, Nevada, and the Bureau of Land Management — who provided support both on the ground and in the air.

No humans were reported injured, no structures were threatened, and no emergency evacuations were needed.

Officials suspect the blaze on the Arizona Strip was caused by humans but their investigation continues.

With the Fourth of July and extreme temps apparently on the horizon, Ojeda advised that people exercise caution when it comes to fire risks and the outdoors,  especially because officials predict the 2019 fire season will be potentially harsh.

Due to the heightened fire danger, restrictions have already been implemented in parts of Arizona by the state and federal government.

This report is based on statements from police or other emergency responders and may not contain the full scope of findings.

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