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SEDONA, Ariz. (AP) — Firefighters in Arizona now have the Slide Fire 45 percent contained.
The blaze broke out more than a week ago in a scenic canyon between Sedona and Flagstaff and has burned 32 square miles.
An area between the park and a subdivision north of the canyon remains under a mandatory evacuation order. Local officials say there's no indication yet when it will be safe to re-enter the canyon, but they plan to brief residents and business owners this evening on preparations.
Meanwhile, Grand Canyon National Park officials say they're letting a lightning-caused wildfire burn on the north rim for now, but will continue to watch how the fire behaves. Park officials say returning fire to the ecosystem will help maintain forest health, but they could move to suppress the blaze if sensitive cultural resources and wildlife habitat are threatened.
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