CROWN KING, Ariz. (Associated Press) — High winds could prove a challenge for firefighters battling a northern Arizona wildfire that has forced residents from a historic mining town.

Fire spokeswoman Karen Takai said Tuesday winds of 35 mph are expected at the blaze near Crown King that has burned about 2 ½ square miles.

Authorities say the 1,600-acre fire started Sunday on private land and remains at zero containment.

A Prescott National Forest spokeswoman says the human-caused blaze has destroyed two buildings and one trailer.

Crown King remains under a mandatory evacuation order.

Fire crews say winds could help clear smoke from this fire and several others in the state that has been shrouding the Phoenix area.

Firefighters also are battling a 7-square-mile blaze south of Payson in the Tonto National Forest.