Fire burns 53 acres on West Plains

AIRWAY HEIGHTS – On Sept. 2, a wildfire erupted on Thorpe Road, quickly consuming 53 acres of land.

The fire, driven by dry conditions and winds, posed an immediate threat to nearby homes and properties, prompting swift action from local fire departments.

Emergency responders arrived on the scene shortly after the fire was reported, working through the day and into the night to contain the blaze. The terrain and shifting winds made containment efforts challenging, but firefighters used ground crews to create firebreaks to prevent further spreading.

As a precaution, evacuation levels were issue...