Fire crews in Arkansas and Missouri continue to battle multiple wildfires after a series of blazes swept through the region in recent days.In Arkansas, the Department of Agriculture’s Forestry Division responded to 96 wildfires statewide on Wednesday. All of those fires are now contained, but officials warn that with today’s forecasted weather conditions, new fires could ignite. Crews are reassessing the situation this morning.
As of today, the department has responded to 10 new fires, with eight still actively burning. State resources have been fully mobilized, with assistance from the Arkansas Department of Public Safety, Arkansas National Guard, U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, U.S. Forest Service from Ozark-St Francis National Forests and Ouachita National Forest, National Park Service, The Nature Conservancy in Arkansas, and volunteer fire departments.
To support containment efforts, Governor Sarah Huckabee Sanders has authorized Blackhawk helicopters to remain on standby through today and tomorrow, ready to provide aerial assistance if needed. Residents are urged to avoid outdoor burning and remain alert to changing conditions.
Meanwhile, in Missouri, crews are working to contain a wildfire near Missouri N Highway near Squires, which spans an estimated 1,100 acres or two square miles. With winds out of the north and northwest, crews have made progress on the fire’s northern edge. Bulldozer teams are focusing on the southern perimeter, where mild growth is occurring due to shifting winds.
Officials say the current weather is aiding containment efforts, but conditions are expected to become more challenging tomorrow.
Authorities in both states are reminding residents to avoid activities that could spark new fires, and follow all burn restrictions.
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