Freeman Fire southeast of Florence 65% contained

The Freeman Fire southeast of Florence and north of Oracle has grown to 32,568 acres at 65% containment, the Arizona Department of Forestry and Fire Management reported on Monday.

Containment is holding along the north, east and southeast flanks of the fire.

"Late Sunday evening a storm system moved through the fire area bringing high winds and some precipitation. However, the fire did not receive enough rain to help with full suppression efforts. On the southwest and west sides of the fire, resources continue their work along the base of the Black Mountains, strengthening containment lines to ensure they hold in any additional wind events," the department stated in a press release.

On Sunday, the GO status -- or immediate evacuation order -- for residents of Willow Springs Ranch was lifted.

Roads within the fire area remain closed to the public and are only accessible to homeowners in the area.

The closed roads are

• Willow Springs Road at State Route 77
• Willow Springs Road at Freeman
• Willow Springs Road at Camino Rio
• Freeman at Barkerville
• Freeman at State Route 79

The fire started July 11 following a lightning strike near the Oak Well Camp. Lightning caused a second fire about a mile away that merged with the first fire.

Due to the wildfire, residents in the Florence area are being asked to be mindful of the air quality. Those with respiratory conditions are advised to limit outdoor activities and stay indoors as much as possible until conditions improve.