Missouri fires

### Daily Wildfire Report for Missouri - March 27, 2025

#### Overview
Missouri is experiencing a highly elevated fire risk due to persistent dry and windy conditions, which have led to a significant increase in wildfire activity across the state. The current weather pattern, characterized by low humidity and strong winds, has created an environment highly conducive to rapid fire spread.

#### Current Situation
- **Fire Activity:** Over the past week, Missouri has seen hundreds of wildfires, with more than 200 incidents reported between March 10 and March 16, affecting over 15,500 acres. The fires have been widespread, impacting various regions including southern Missouri, the Ozarks, and even areas near St. Louis County[1][2][4].
- **Active Fires:** Multiple wildfires are still active, particularly in southern Missouri, with fires reported in Wayne, Reynolds, and Iron Counties. One significant fire in Reynolds County is approximately 90% contained as of March 21[2][4].
- **Firefighting Efforts:** The Missouri Department of Conservation (MDC), along with federal agencies and local fire departments, are actively engaged in containing and suppressing these wildfires. Additional resources and staff have been mobilized from other regions to support the ongoing efforts[2][4].

#### Key Details
- **Affected Areas:** The fires are scattered throughout the southern portion of the state, including areas within Mark Twain National Forest near Rolla, Caney Mountain Conservation Area in Ozark County, and part of the Current River Conservation Area in Reynolds County[1][2][4].
- **Damage and Impact:** While there have been no reported injuries or fatalities, the fires have destroyed 20 homes and other property. The Columbia Bottoms area in Spanish Lake also experienced a significant fire that burned over 100 acres[1][4].
- **Weather Conditions:** The National Weather Service has issued Red Flag Warnings for parts of southern Missouri and southern Illinois due to high winds, low humidity, and dry conditions, which are expected to continue and exacerbate the fire risk[1][2][4].
- **Prescribed Burns and Fire Prevention:** The MDC is emphasizing the importance of avoiding outdoor burning during adverse weather conditions. Residents are advised to be cautious with activities that could spark fires, such as driving off-road, making campfires, and discarding cigarette butts. Prescribed burns are not currently a focus due to the high fire danger, but general fire prevention measures are being stressed[3][4].

#### Recommendations
- **Public Awareness:** Residents are urged to be vigilant and prepared. Avoid burning debris, bonfires, or trash during red flag warnings. Be cautious with cigarette butts, equipment that could cause sparks, and driving off-road in dry areas[1][3][4].
- **Fire Safety:** Ensure campfires are small, controllable, and fully extinguished before leaving. Keep fire-extinguishing materials nearby. Regularly inspect vehicles for potential fire hazards such as catalytic converters and fuel leaks[4].
- **Reporting Fires:** If you notice a fire getting out of control, call 911 immediately. Report any potential arson activities to 800-392-1111[4].

#### Resources
For up-to-date emergency information, residents can visit:
- **Missouri Department of Conservation:** [mdc.mo.gov](https://mdc.mo.gov/)
- **National Weather Service:** [www.weather.gov/](https://www.weather.gov/)
- **National Interagency Fire Center (NIFC):** [www.nifc.gov/fire-information/nfn](https://www.nifc.gov/fire-information/nfn)

Stay informed and prepared by monitoring these resources regularly.

CITATIONS

['https://www.kcur.org/news/2025-03-20/missouri-saw-hundreds-of-wildfires-in-the-last-week-dry-windy-conditions-could-spark-more', 'https://www.krcu.org/show/going-public/2025-03-21/going-public-matt-boyer-with-mo-dept-of-conservation-talks-about-ongoing-wildfire-control-efforts-in-southern-mo', 'https://www.jamesporttricountyweekly.com/articles/10707/view/capitol-report-march-27-2025', 'https://www.ozarkradionews.com/local-news/wildfire-danger-remains-high-as-mdc-crews-continue-to-battle-blazes-in-southern-missouri', 'https://www.nifc.gov/fire-information/nfn']