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Molino Fire At Base Of Catalina Mountains 25% Contained

Rugged terrain, dry grass and high winds have made it difficult for firefighters to contain the Molino Fire burning north of Tucson.

Fire investigators said it started around 3:30 p.m. on Sunday and forced visitors to the Molino Campground to evacuate by nightfall.

At one point, the fire threatened the Catalina Highway at the base of the foothills.

Brandalyn Vonk, a fire spokesperson, with the Coronado National Forest said the wildfire temporarily closed down the road as crews worked along the roadside.

The route reopened to traffic after crews contained the southern edge of the fire, now 25% contained and approaching nearly 400 acres.

Although the highway reopened to traffic, Vonk warned motorists: "Drive slowly and turn their headlights on for safety, as we do have firefighters and equipment still working in the area."

Fire investigators have not determined what started the blaze.

Holliday Moore was a reporter at KJZZ from 2017 to 2020.