Mesa Families Displaced by Apartment Fire as Data Center Plans Return and Heat Nears 100
Mesa, AZ – March 13, 2026 – Fire displaces families, data center plans return, and an early heat wave pushes temps toward 100 degrees.
Mesa is closing out the week with a mix of urgent recovery efforts, major development news, and an early taste of summer.
Apartment Fire Displaces 12, Child Hospitalized
A Tuesday morning fire at the Gilbert Square Apartments near University Drive and Gilbert Road forced 12 people from their homes.
Mesa firefighters responded just before 5 a.m. to heavy smoke and flames coming from the complex. Crews were able to contain the blaze, though part of the roof collapsed during the response. Two firefighters were knocked down but were not injured.
An 18-month-old child was taken to the hospital as a precaution after experiencing breathing issues. Fire officials say four units were damaged. The Red Cross is assisting the displaced families while investigators work to determine the cause.
Revised Data Center Plan Heads to City Leaders
EdgeCore Digital Infrastructure is back before Mesa’s Planning and Zoning Board with a revised proposal for its Mesa North Campus in the Elliot Road Technology Corridor.
The company previously secured approval in 2024 for a large-scale expansion. The updated plan scales back the size of the project while maintaining its focus on data center growth in the area. If recommended by the commission, the proposal will move on to the Mesa City Council for consideration.
The project remains a significant piece of Mesa’s expanding tech and industrial footprint.
Triple-Digit Heat Arrives Early
Meanwhile, an unusual March heat wave is sweeping across the Valley, with forecasters warning that temperatures could approach 100 degrees in the coming days.
It’s a sharp jump for mid-March, raising concerns for outdoor workers, families enjoying spring break, and anyone not yet acclimated to summer-like conditions. Residents are encouraged to hydrate, limit peak afternoon activity, and check on vulnerable neighbors.
With fire recovery underway, growth plans advancing, and temperatures climbing, it’s been a busy stretch for Mesa as the city heads into the weekend.
Sources
https://www.kold.com/2026/03/10/12-displaced-after-fire-sparks-mesa-apartment-complex-child-hospitalized/
https://realestatedaily-news.com/edgecore-returns-with-revised-mesa-data-center-plan/
https://www.azfamily.com/video/2026/03/12/unprecedented-march-heat-wave-push-temps-100-degrees/
