Arkansas is battling an escalating wildfire crisis as state and local authorities work to contain 54 active blazes across the state, officials reported Wednesday. Fueled by dry conditions and gusty winds, the fires have disrupted travel and prompted urgent warnings from the Arkansas State Police for motorists to avoid several key areas.
In Jefferson County, Interstate 530—a major corridor south of Little Rock—has been completely shut down from Exit 12 to Exit 32, with Highway 104 at Exit 30 also closed.
Thick smoke and encroaching flames have rendered the route impassable, forcing authorities to reroute all traffic to and from the capital through Grant County via Highways 270 and 167. “We’re asking drivers to plan ahead and stay patient,” an Arkansas State Police spokesperson said. “These detours are critical for everyone’s safety.”
The trouble extends north to Jackson County, where U.S. 67 is blocked at the 69-mile marker, halting travel along a vital rural highway. In Lawrence County, two separate closures have added to the chaos: U.S. 67 near the 124-mile marker by the Fulbright community and U.S. 63/412 in Portia are both shut down as fire crews battle nearby blazes.
The Arkansas Department of Transportation has deployed signs and personnel to redirect traffic, but delays are mounting.
The National Weather Service in Little Rock reported that low humidity and winds up to 20-25 mph have created prime conditions for rapid fire spread, a scenario not uncommon for Arkansas in early spring.
While the exact number of total wildfires statewide remains fluid, authorities confirmed earlier this week that over 300 fires have been reported in recent days, overwhelming resources and prompting Gov. Sarah Huckabee Sanders to declare a state of emergency, according to updates from the Arkansas Division of Emergency Management.
No injuries have been reported as of Wednesday evening, but the Arkansas Forestry Commission warned that several rural communities remain at risk. Firefighters, bolstered by mutual aid from neighboring states, are focusing on containment lines around populated areas.
Motorists are urged to heed the Arkansas State Police advisories and avoid the affected zones until conditions improve. Updates on road closures and fire containment efforts are expected as the situation evolves.
