Warthog Fire Contained: Evacuation Orders Lifted in Juneau County
JUNEAU COUNTY, WI (OnFocus) – Fire crews have successfully gained control of the Warthog Fire that burned approximately 80 acres in Juneau County, Wisconsin. As of 6:40 p.m. Monday, officials confirmed that the fire is now under control and evacuation orders have been lifted. Residents of the town of Kingston and the community of Mather are being allowed to safely return to their homes.
Suppression resources continue to strengthen containment lines and address isolated areas of active fire within the interior. Fire behavior is expected to moderate into the evening, with crews transitioning to night operations focused on patrol and mop-up efforts.
The Southwest District Incident Management Team has been demobilized as firefighting efforts scale down. Meanwhile, Wisconsin Army National Guard Blackhawk helicopters are completing final water drops to reinforce containment lines before returning to base.
The fire began earlier in the day in the town of Cutler before advancing northeast into Kingston, prompting the evacuation of approximately 40 homes. Portions of County Highway 173 were closed, and emergency notifications were issued to affected residents.
No injuries have been reported, and the cause of the fire remains under investigation.
Firefighters from the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources (DNR), in coordination with local fire departments and law enforcement agencies, responded swiftly. Resources deployed included 11 fire engines, six tractor plows, two air attack aircraft, and two Blackhawk helicopters.
A command post was established at the DNR Tomah Ranger Station as officials activated the Southwest District Incident Management Team to coordinate the response.
High Fire Danger Conditions
Monday’s critical fire conditions, driven by warm temperatures, low humidity, and gusty winds, contributed to the rapid spread of the blaze. The DNR suspended all outdoor burning in the area in response.
For ongoing updates on fire conditions, burning restrictions, and safety information, residents are encouraged to visit the Wisconsin DNR website or follow the DNR on social media.
We welcome your stories! Contact us at [email protected]!
Author: News Desk
This piece was posted by our news team! Contact us or submit stories at [email protected].
