WOOD COUNTY — Firefighters have made major progress on a large fire burning in Wood County, bringing it to roughly 95% containment. But officials are warning that the overnight hours could bring a new challenge for local residents.
Right now, weather conditions are pushing smoke high into the atmosphere, keeping ground-level air relatively clear.
That is expected to change.
Smoke May Settle Closer to the Ground Overnight
As conditions shift overnight, smoke could drop lower and begin affecting air quality at ground level.
Air quality monitoring equipment is already in place around the fire perimeter. Officials say it is continuously tracking conditions to detect hazards as they develop.
Residents — especially those with asthma, COPD, or other respiratory issues — are strongly urged to stay indoors as much as possible.
No shelter-in-place order has been issued at this time.
Temporary Shelter Closed, But Can Reopen Fast
A temporary shelter at the Wood County Resiliency Center was opened as a precaution but closed at 10 p.m. after no residents used it.
Officials say the shelter can be reactivated quickly if conditions worsen or if anyone needs a safe place to go.
How to Stay Updated
Full extinguishment of the fire is expected to take several more days.
Residents should monitor the official Wood County E911 social media page and sign up for the Everbridge emergency alert system to receive real-time updates as conditions develop.
Are you in the affected area? Let us know how conditions look in your neighborhood in the comments below.
