DOUGLAS COUNTY, Mo. - The 'N Highway Fire' in Douglas County has quickly morphed into a significant crisis, expanding from an initial estimate of approximately 300 acres to about 1,100 acres as of Thursday afternoon, with containment efforts reaching 55%. This blaze has become the largest wildland fire recorded in the county's history and continues to pose challenges to local firefighters and agencies.
Reports indicate that the fire has been raging along Highway N for several days, exacerbated by fierce 50 mph winds that have stirred up old flames and led to new outbreaks. As the smoke rises, those nearby describe eerie scenes where daylight gives way to darkness under the heavy haze.
One firefighter from the Brixey-Rockbridge Fire Department remarked, "Wildfire was harsh ... the wind was brutal, and the fire would jump from one area to the next ... the smoke turned day into night." This description encapsulates the struggle faced by local firefighting teams, who have seen their efforts stretched thin.
In response to the escalating threat, the Region D and G mutual aid agreement was activated late Wednesday evening. Firefighters from surrounding regions, including Joplin and Springfield, are mobilizing to assist as local crews battle the flames. A variety of fire departments, including Pierce City Fire and Central Crossing Fire, have also dispatched teams to provide reinforcements.
On Thursday morning, Pierce City Fire reported sending a brush truck equipped with one crew member from PCFD and one personnel from the Monett Rural Fire Department. Additionally, support crews, such as Willard Fire, Ebenezer Fire, Battlefield Fire, and others, had been involved in combating the blaze overnight.
"This is only possible because of the strong partnerships that we've worked really hard to build with our neighbors. We truly are neighbors helping neighbors," commented a representative from Pierce City Fire.
Currently, the Missouri Department of Conservation and the U.S. Forestry Service are also playing vital roles in managing the fire response. The Squires Volunteer Fire Department, tasked with overseeing the area where the fire is located, provided an update stating, "The fire on N Hwy is currently 50% contained. The fire is still burning, though residents are safe for the night. The moisture is doing a good job of slowing the progress. However, wind is forecast for tomorrow, which will cause the fire to grow again. We will have crews back out in the morning to check fire lines and work on containment. Crews have been brought in from region D&G, to backfill for our exhausted volunteers."
Exhausted local firefighters are grateful for the numerous neighboring departments willing to join the effort. "We thank you all!" Squires Fire expressed their appreciation to all who have been assisting.
As winds remain a concern, the battle to contain the 'N Highway Fire' continues. Firefighters are ready to face what lies ahead, returning daily to ensure that fire lines are secure while providing care and protection to the residents of Douglas County.
