A large brush fire broke out at the intersection near Capitol Drive and Barker Road in the Town of Brookfield on Sunday, March 9. The first reports of a fire came in around 1:30 p.m., and shortly after 4 p.m. the fire was marked as being completely under control. In total, the burn lasted for about two and a half hours.
The cause of the fire has not yet been determined. However, high winds played a significant factor in the fire’s ability to spread amidst the dry brush. Warm winds coming from the southwest blew at almost 30 miles per hour, allowing for the fire to catch on.
Local residents first spotted the fire in a portion of brush and grass. After initial reports came in, firefighters flocked to the scene. Several nearby roads were shut down to allow the departments the space to contain the burn. Many nearby noticed the thick, dark cloud of smoke that rose from the fire. A car dealership nearby was threatened by the burn, as well as several homes north and east of the fire.
As the fire grew, additional units were requested to the scene to help control the burn. Brookfield, Wauwatosa, Elm Grove, Sussex, New Berlin, Menomonee Falls, Pewaukee, North Shore, Butler, Tess Corners, Merton, and West Allis fire departments were all either present or requested to the scene. An evacuation order was given to the nearby Brookfield Sports Complex as well as the Voigt Soccer Park. Some local neighborhoods and homes were also asked to evacuate. The evacuation order has since been lifted, although several nearby roads did not immediately reopen. Residents seeking a way back home were allowed to return on foot.
The high winds and warm temperatures caused several brush fires in southeast Wisconsin on Sunday. Smaller fires were also reported and contained in Mukwonago and Ottawa. Although spring weather may not appear dry after rain and melting snow, there can still be a high likelihood of wildfires. Dead leaves and branches may be extremely flammable and can easily be picked up by wind. It is important to exercise caution and check weather conditions throughout the spring.
