Independence County Judge Kevin Jeffery has declared a countywide burn ban. Jeffery made the call after an unattended fire spread rapidly in high winds and threatened several homes on Saturday.
Jeffery said the blaze, in the 2800 block of Newport Road, began when someone lit a fire despite the windy conditions, allowing flames to jump fences and endanger nearby structures. The Southside Fire Department arrived within minutes of a dispatch page, but the fire intensified, requiring additional help, the county judge said.
Crews from State Forestry, Oil Trough Fire Department, Batesville Fire Department, and the Independence County Sheriff’s Department responded, Jeffery said. He added that he used a hose alongside firefighters as they worked to contain the blaze.
Independence County Judge Kevin Jeffery assists firefighters at Saturday afternoon’s fire in Rosie.
“Homes were saved today because of hard work, good equipment, and dedicated firemen,” Jeffery said.
No injuries were reported. The burn ban remains in effect until weather conditions improve.
All images via Independence County Judge Kevin Jeffery
Have a news tip or event to promote? Email White River Now at news@whiterivernow.com. Be sure to like and follow us on Facebook and Twitter. And don’t forget to download the White River Now mobile app from the Google Play Store or the Apple App Store.
Get up-to-date local and regional news/weather from the First Community Bank Newsroom on Arkansas 103.3 KWOZ every weekday morning and afternoon. White River Now updates are also aired on weekday mornings on
93 KZLE, Outlaw 106.5, and Your FM 99.5. Catch CBS News around the top of every hour on 1340 KBTA.
