Brush fire burns along highway, damages culvert near Bell City

FOX23 News at 9 p.m

BELL CITY, Mo., (KBSI) — Firefighters responded to a rapidly spreading brush fire Thursday afternoon that threatened utility infrastructure and damaged a culvert beneath a highway in rural Bell City.

Bell City Fire Rescue was dispatched at approximately 12:44 p.m. and responded with Brush 1, Rescue Engine 3 and Tanker 1.

Upon arrival, crews discovered about two miles of spot fires burning along the highway. Several of the fires had grown significantly and were threatening nearby utility poles. Firefighters also encountered a large culvert fire that had spread underneath the roadway.

Crews conducted a coordinated attack on the fires, preventing damage to utility poles and limiting additional damage to the culvert and surrounding property.

Because of damage to the culvert, the Missouri Department of Transportation was notified and responded to the scene.

After extinguishing the fire, firefighters remained on scene to conduct overhaul operations and ensure all hot spots were extinguished to prevent rekindling.

Fire officials reminded residents to report any smoke or fire and urged caution during dry and windy conditions, which can allow brush fires to spread rapidly.