CALDWELL W.Va. (WVDN) – A brush fire off Cecil Lane in Caldwell rapidly spread across several acres yesterday evening, March 28, prompting a multi-agency response.
At 3:17 p.m., Lewisburg Fire Department was dispatched to reports of a brush fire in woodland adjoining Cecil Lane. Upon arrival, crews found a few acres of woodland already ablaze, with flames driven by strong winds and low humidity, which fueled the rapid spread, according to Lewisburg Fire Department Chief Joe Thomas.
Given the severity of the situation, arriving units requested assistance from the West Virginia Division of Forestry, Fairlea Fire Department, and Frankford Fire Department. Around 20 firefighters worked tirelessly to establish fire lines and conduct back burns to create barriers and slow the spread of the flames.
By 8:58 p.m., crews had cleared the scene. While the main fire was contained, the area within the established fire line remained smoldering, and small fires continued to burn inside the line as crews monitored the perimeter and ensured hot spots did not rekindle.
The fire burned a total of 61 acres. Officials noted that conditions are currently in a “HIGH” fire danger category, with weather factors such as high wind and low humidity contributing to ongoing risk. In light of yesterday’s event, Thomas reminds all residents to exercise extreme caution with any outdoor burning. Fires quickly escalate under these conditions, and taking preventative steps helps protect lives and property.
Thomas said no injuries were reported, and the investigation into how the fire started is ongoing. Additional details will be released as they become available. Fire Chief Joe Thomas stated, “We will be out there today checking and possibly putting out spots if we feel they may become an issue.”
*All photos provided by Joe Thomas
