NW Wisconsin wildfire consumes 8,700 acres

TOWN OF GORDON, Wis. — Firefighters worked to contain a smoky wildfire in northwestern Wisconsin that has consumed 8,700 acres, destroyed nearly 50 structures and forced dozens from their homes.

The Department of Natural Resources says the wildfire is about 90 percent contained, meaning firefighters have stopped most of the fire from spreading.

DNR spokesman Kevin Harter says while 47 structures were lost, including 17 homes, firefighters were able to save 77 additional structures. He says there have been no injuries to either firefighters or residents of the affected area.

Harter says 60 evacuees registered at Drummond High School and 22 stayed overnight.

DNR officials say the wildfire was first reported near the Town of Barnes Tuesday. Conservation wardens went door-to-door in the area to alert homeowners of the fire danger.