Pallet Fire in Coloma on July 10th burns 830 acres and destroys 20 structures

On Tuesday morning, July 11th, the DNR is reassessing the damage caused by a 830-acre wildfire they named the Pallet Fire. The fire was reported at approximately 1 p.m. on July 10th and the Coloma Fire Department responded along with the Department of Natural Resources and numerous fire departments from throughout the area including: Coloma, Waupun, Ripon, Eden, Campbellsport, Waupaca, New London, Scandinavia, Springfield, Marquette, Plainfield, Markesan, New Chester, Algoma, Newton, Poy Sippi, Princeton, Wild Rose, Coloma, Fremont, Weyauwega, Wautoma, Campbellsport, Westfield, Nekoosa, Pittsville, Wisconsin Rapids, Rudolph, and Grand Rapids. On July 11 there were 15 fire departments on scene with fire engines, water tenders and brush trucks from Hobart, Potter, Plover, Ledgeview, Stockbridge, Freedom, Lawrence, Chilton, Stockton, Green Bay, St. Anna, Black Creek, Howard, New Holstein, and Amherst. The fire quickly spread due to high winds and drought conditions. Homes were evacuated and animals were placed in safe areas, as Waushara County Sheriff’s Department and the WI State Patrol responded and went home to home in the area to evacuate 100 homes, making sure everyone got out safely. The Waushara County Highway Department responded with barricades to block off roads from through traffic. The Emergency Management Director was on the scene with the trailer equipped for communication between firefighters, the DNR, and departments. The Coloma Fire Department is so appreciative to Jenna at The Red Hill Royal Café, The Cabin Bar & Grill, The Bread Bar, Miller’s Hillside Pub, Ponderosa Pines and everyone who assisted and provided food and water donations for the departments. On Tuesday The Royal Café and Miller’s Hillside Pub made breakfast for the firefighters that remain on the scene for fire suppression. The Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources (DNR) fire crews and local agencies are on the scene of the now roughly 830-acre Pallet Fire in Waushara County, southeast of Coloma. The fire is 99% contained. Three primary structures and 17 secondary structures have been lost. The cause of the wildfire is debris burning. Previous reports have stated various sizes; the update to 830 acres is based on the use of infrared/satellite technology and location points taken on the ground used to help get a more accurate depiction of the size of the fire. The fire size will be updated as more information is available. Officials say the Pallet Fire travelled northeast and burned in pine and mixed hardwoods along Cumberland Avenue and north of Hwy 21. Fire officials on scene indicated erratic fire behavior due to gusty winds and drought conditions, along with reports of torching with fire moving into the crowns of the trees. Several spot fires occurred ahead of the fire and were suppressed and monitored. DNR fire suppression resources and local fire departments are on the scene, continuing suppression efforts and providing structure protection. Eight firefighters have been treated for injuries and released. DNR Incident Management Team staff continue to operate at the command post located at the Coloma Fire Department. Waushara County Emergency Management and local law enforcement agencies are also on the scene. Alliant Energy is working to restore power in the area. Almost no rain was received in the fire perimeter overnight, so fire conditions remain active today. Drought, warm temperatures and low relative humidity are still forecasted, but winds are expected to be lighter today. Fire danger remains high across many parts of the state due to these conditions. Campfires, ashes from fireplaces, outdoor grills, smoking, chainsaws, off-road vehicles or other small engines have the potential to throw a spark, ignite a fire and spread quickly. Please use extreme caution and avoid burning until conditions improve. For the most current fire situation and evacuation information, follow the DNR on Facebook and Twitter, or check current fire danger, wildfire reports and burning restrictions on the DNR website.