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Fire burning through Washington County now contained

After several hours, the fire that was on both sides of Highway 185 is contained

WASHINGTON COUNTY, Mo. — A fire that burned for hours in Washington County, Missouri is now contained.

Earlier on Thursday, some residents were asked to use caution and evacuate if needed due to a brush fire in the area.

Dozens of neighboring fire departments worked to put out a large brush fire for more than five hours. The fire was on both sides of Highway 185 and the highway was closed as crews worked to put the fire out. 

Potosi Fire Department spokesperson Robert Lane said about 100 to 150 firefighters were on scene. 

Editor's note: Spokesperson Lane previously indicated a 2 mile radius was evacuated, he later said no one was evacuated. 

The area is under a red flag warning until 5 p.m. as the combination of strong winds, low relative humidity and dry fuels will contribute to extreme fire behavior, according to the U.S. National Weather Service.

Credit: NWS

RELATED: Tracking strong winds Thursday in the St. Louis area

RELATED: St. Louis area forecast: The strong gusts die down this evening

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