An Arizona forestry official said at least 19 firefighters have died battling a fast-moving wildfire in central Arizona, prompting the evacuation of homes in several communities.

Above, Dean Smith watched as the fire encroached on his home in Glenn Ilah on Sunday, June 30, 2013 near Yarnell, Ariz. The fire started Friday and picked up momentum as the area experienced high temperatures, low humidity and windy conditions.

A home burned amidst the Yarnell Hill Fire.

Firefighters moved away from the quick-spreading wildfire.

Residents evacuated along Hays Road in Peeples Valley, Ariz. as the Yarnell Hill fire advanced.

Firefighters monitored a restaurant as the Yarnell Hill fire burned in the background.

Tanker 910 made a fire retardant drop on the Yarnell Hill wildfire to help protect the Double Bar A Ranch near Peeples Valley, Ariz.

The Yarnell Hill Fire burned through the Peeples Valley area and in the town of Yarnell.

Flames topped a ridge as the wilfire moved towards Peeples Valley.

More homes burned as the Yarnell Hill Fire approached Glenn Ilah.