COLOMA, Wis. – The Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources (DNR) fire crews and local agencies are on the scene of the now roughly 830-acre Pallet Fire in Waushara County, southeast of Coloma. The fire is 99% contained.
Three primary structures and 17 secondary structures have been lost. The cause of the wildfire is debris burning.
Previous reports have stated various sizes; the update to 830 acres is based on the use of infrared/satellite technology and location points taken on the ground used to help get a more accurate depiction of the size of the fire. The fire size will be updated as more information is available.
Officials say the Pallet Fire travelled northeast and burned in pine and mixed hardwoods along Cumberland Avenue and north of Hwy 21. Fire officials on scene indicated erratic fire behavior due to gusty winds and drought conditions, along with reports of torching with fire moving into the crowns of the trees. Several spot fires occurred ahead of the fire and were suppressed and monitored.
DNR fire suppression resources and local fire departments are on the scene, continuing suppression efforts and providing structure protection. Eight firefighters have been treated for injuries and released.
DNR Incident Management Team staff continue to operate at the command post located at the Coloma Fire Department. Waushara County Emergency Management and local law enforcement agencies are also on the scene. Alliant Energy is working to restore power in the area.
Almost no rain was received in the fire perimeter overnight, so fire conditions remain active today. Drought, warm temperatures and low relative humidity are still forecasted, but winds are expected to be lighter today.
Fire danger remains high across many parts of the state due to these conditions. Campfires, ashes from fireplaces, outdoor grills, smoking, chainsaws, off-road vehicles or other small engines have the potential to throw a spark, ignite a fire and spread quickly. Please use extreme caution and avoid burning until conditions improve.
For the most current fire situation and evacuation information, follow the DNR on Facebook and Twitter, or check current fire danger, wildfire reports and burning restrictions on the DNR website.
Previous post – Tuesday, July 11
COLOMA, Wis. – The Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources (DNR) fire crews and local agencies are on the scene of the roughly 400-acre Pallet Fire in Waushara County, southeast of Coloma. The fire is now 99% contained.
Previous reports stated the fire was a larger size, however, after aerial review, more accurate mapping indicated the fire is roughly 400-acres. Lines along the fire perimeter are holding; there are still reports of unburned fuel burning inside the perimeter.
Local law enforcement and emergency management officials completed a few evacuations in the area and will continue as needed. A few structures were reported lost.
Officials say the Pallet Fire travelled northeast and burned in pine and mixed hardwoods along Cumberland Avenue and north of Hwy 21. Fire officials on scene indicated erratic fire behavior due to gusty winds and drought conditions along with reports of torching and fire moving into the crowns of the trees. Several spot fires occurred ahead of the fire and were suppressed and monitored. The cause of the wildfire is still under investigation.
DNR fire suppression resources are on the scene, including 13 DNR engines, 16 heavy units (dozers with engines) and 1 air attack plane. Several local fire departments are also assisting with suppression efforts and providing structure protection. A Wisconsin Operating Engineers training facility nearby has also provided several resources to assist with suppression efforts.
The Northeast District Incident Management Team has been activated, and the command post has been set up at the Coloma Fire Department. Waushara County emergency management, along with local law enforcement agencies and several other fire departments, are also on scene.
Today’s weather conditions resulted in elevated fire danger ahead of a developing storm front. Contributing factors include warm temperatures, low relative humidity, gusty winds and dry vegetation due to extended drought. Eleven other wildfires occurred today in DNR protection areas and have subsequently been suppressed.
For the most current fire situation and evacuation information, follow the DNR on Facebook and Twitter, or check current fire danger, wildfire reports and burning restrictions on the DNR website.
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