Area fire crews battled a large field fire near Rio on Sunday, as dangerously dry and windy conditions fueled the blaze. The fire, reported at approximately 2:20 p.m., consumed three standing cornfields along Knox Road 100 East, sending large plumes of smoke visible across fields between Knox Road 200 East and Knox Road 100 East.
The Rio Fire Protection District issued a Mutual Aid Box Alarm System (MABAS) Box 31 call, summoning over 20 fire departments from surrounding areas to assist. Firefighters worked to protect structures as smoke blew toward the village of Rio, successfully containing the blaze by around 5 p.m. Sunday.
The Knox County Sheriff’s Office closed two highways to ensure safe access for emergency responders. Knox Highway 33, from Knox Highway 34 to Rio, and Knox Highway 2, from U.S. Highway 150 north to Rio, were shut down during the response. Officials urged drivers to avoid the area to support firefighting efforts.
Authorities advise residents to remain cautious due to ongoing dry weather, which heightens fire risks across Knox County.
