March 19th, 2025 Local News
Reynolds Co., Mo. (KFMO) - Firefighters are battling multiple brush fires in Reynolds County, including a massive 200-acre blaze near Sweetwater Mine in Ellington. The Reynolds County Emergency Management Agency reports that as of 5 p.m. on Wednesday, March 19, eight brush fires are burning across the county.
According to the Northern Reynolds County Fire Protection District, the fire at Sweetwater Mine is “extremely wind-driven,” making containment efforts challenging. Multiple fire departments are on scene, including crews from the Missouri Department of Conservation and the U.S. Forest Service. Emergency personnel have deployed four bulldozers, with additional resources on the way.
The fire was first reported around 6:45 a.m. No injuries have been reported, but some homes have been evacuated as a precaution. At this time, the cause of the fire remains unknown.
As of 8:30 p.m. on Wednesday, authorities started evacuations for CR 500, CR 510, CR 514, CR 202 and CR 203.
The FEMA building at Ellington School has been opened as a shelter for those displaced by the fires. Authorities urge residents in affected areas to stay alert and follow evacuation orders if necessary.
