80-Acre Wildfire In Juneau County Evacuates Homes

MADISON, Wis. (CIVIC MEDIA) – The Warthog Fire is threatening at least 40 homes in Kingston and Mather, portions of Highway 173 are also closed.

As of 6:40 p.m. on Monday, May 12, the fire is controlled, and people can safely return to their homes, according to the DNR.  

In total, the fire burned approximately 80 acres. 

Called the “Warthog Fire” it set fire in Juneau County, where an estimated 40 homes were being evacuated in the town of Kingston and the community of Mather. Portions of County Highway 173 wee also closed, as of 5:30 p.m.

Officials say the fire originated in the Town of Cutler. No injuries have been reported. The cause of the wildfire is still under investigation. 

Weather conditions resulted in critical fire danger, with DNR suspending outdoor burning. Contributing factors include warm temperatures, very low relative humidity and windy conditions.

On just Monday alone, 25 wildfires started and burned a total of 205 acres and counting. Bringing the current year totals to near 2,500 acres from 767 fires.

Rain is expected to sprinkle into the forecast Tuesday, with more scattered showers on Wednesday and heavier rain expected on Thursday, which should help the dry conditions.