Licking Fire Department Issues Evacuation Order
The Licking Fire Department has issued an evacuation order for residents west of Licking along Highway 32 due to a rapidly advancing natural cover fire. Authorities report the fire is moving east at a fast pace. The Texas County Sheriff’s Department and Missouri State Highway Patrol have been dispatched to assist with contacting homeowners in the area near Highway N, west of Licking.
With a high fire danger today, authorities are also reporting electrical outages. As of 2:08 p.m., approximately 300 homes in rural Texas County are without power.
Douglas County Wildfire Forces Evacuations
A wildfire near Squires, south of Ava, along the Douglas and Ozark County line, has intensified, prompting more evacuations. The Squires Volunteer Fire Department is urging residents along State Highway N between County Roads 325 and 333 to evacuate immediately. Those living on County Roads 349 and 352 are also being ordered to leave due to the growing wildfire.
Firefighters from multiple agencies are battling the blaze, but high winds Wednesday afternoon have made firefighting efforts more difficult.
The Squires Community Center has been opened as a shelter for evacuees.
Howell County Fire Reported
A fire has been reported in Howell County, located west of Highway 63 and south of County Road 2720. Authorities are working to assess and contain the situation.
A fire has also been reported on south Highway 17 off County Road 9180.
