The Midway Fire was reported Tuesday afternoon and is burning 9 miles east of Horseshoe Reservoir in the Mazatzal Wilderness area and 22 miles northeast of Cave Creek. It has consumed approximately 300 acres.
The lightning-caused fire is burning in steep, rocky, inaccessible terrain.
According to authorities, fire resources are scouting potential containment lines. Access to this part of the forest is extremely difficult and crews are working to identify areas where they can be successful in suppressing the fire. Smoke will be visible from the north Scottsdale communities and the State Route 87 corridor.
Thunderstorms are forecast for the next several afternoons. While they can bring rain to the area, they can also bring more lightning and unpredictable outflow winds which can cause rapid rates of fire spread. Firefighters are available to respond to new fire starts across the forest.