Calhoun County officials reported Friday morning that the wildfire that ignited on Monday is now 75% contained, with just over 2,800 acres burned. The fire forced the evacuation of 150 residents and prompted activation of the Arkansas Division of Emergency Management.
Additional National Guard support
In response to the growing blaze, the Mississippi National Guard and the Oklahoma National Guard each dispatched a CH-47 Chinook helicopter to Camden, Arkansas. The helicopters are slated to remain on the fire line until Tuesday, providing water drops and aerial reconnaissance.
Arkansas National Guard assets are also being expanded. Two more Black Hawk helicopters will join the effort, bringing the total number of state‑operated aircraft on scene to four. The combined air fleet is expected to focus on hot spots along the fire perimeter, especially any dead trees that could reignite the line.
Local crews continue ground operations
Arkansas Forestry Division spokesman Robert Murphy said the additional air support will free local forestry crews to address any new ignitions that may arise elsewhere in the county. “Our crews are cautiously optimistic,” Murphy said, noting that containment percentages are expected to rise on Friday and Saturday.
Murphy warned that isolated dead trees inside the containment line could still generate sparks that cross the barrier. “Today’s focus for the aircraft will be to work the boundaries of the fire, to drop water on hot spots and try to get as many of those hot spots put out as we possibly can,” he explained.
Impact on residents
So far, no injuries have been reported. The evacuation order remains in place for the 150 displaced residents while authorities continue to monitor air quality and road conditions. Local shelters have been opened to provide temporary housing and basic necessities.
Officials emphasized that the fire’s cause remains under investigation, and they are urging anyone with information to contact the Arkansas Division of Emergency Management.
Looking ahead
Fire crews plan to maintain containment efforts for several more days, with the goal of fully extinguishing the blaze before the weekend. The coordinated effort between state and out‑of‑state National Guard units underscores the region’s commitment to protecting families, property, and the natural environment.
Original reporting: Texarkana Gazette — read the source article.
