July 25: Fire now 80% contained

Big Sandy Fire was 80% contained as of Sunday, according to the state Department of Forestry and Fire Management.

At last check, the fire had burned about 150 acres of grass, bush and cottonwoods.

A small crew of firefighters stayed in the area Monday to monitor the fire's perimeter and watch for any smoke or heat.

July 19: Concerns grow that fire could reach Wikieup 

As the Big Sandy Fire near Wikieup burns at least 150 acres, community concerns grow that the flames could reach the town.

Over the weekend and into Monday some residents voluntarily evacuated, and others are packed and waiting.

“The fire is threatening about 10 to 15 structures at this time, and as it gets closer to the community of Wikieup that number could increase obviously as it moves into a more populated area," said Tiffany Davila is with the Arizona Department of Forestry and Fire Management.

Helicopter and other air power is helping aid fire fighting on the ground But, nearby thunderstorms are delaying the effort due to safety concerns. Rain doesn’t seem to be slowing the blaze.

July 17: Wildfire leads to about 20 evacuations in Wikieup 

A wildfire has forced the evacuation of about 20 people from the unincorporated Mohave County community of Wikieup in northwestern Arizona, authorities said Sunday.

Officials with the Arizona Department of Forestry and Fire Management said the wildfire was at 150 acres and threatening multiple structures as dense vegetation burn close to Big Sandy Wash, located a few miles away from Wikieup.

Smoke is visible along U.S. 93 and officials said the wind-driven fire was creating numerous spot fires in the area.

Authorities have ordered additional resources, including a hot shot crew.

It’s unclear how the wildfire started, but federal Bureau of Land Management officials said recent monsoon storm activity and lightning has ignited at least six wildfires in the Kingman area.

Wikieup is 139 miles northwest of Phoenix.