Brush Fire Wrapped Up in Alsip

ALSIP, IL -- Wind and dry air fueled a large fire that burned for several hours Tuesday afternoon in Alsip. The Alsip Fire Department and other suburban fire departments are working to contain the flames from reaching nearby homes and businesses. It was under control by the early evening hours, Alsip police said.

"Thanks to everyone for their hard work, prayers, and support today," the department wrote on Facebook after giving an "all clear."

The fire started just before noon in the 3800 block of 124th Place in Alsip, WGN reported. . Images of the fire captured by citizens and from the air showed flames burning along a prairie path and the railroad tracks stretching from 115th and Cicero Avenue to 127th Street.

The Alsip Police Department posted a statement on its Facebook page asking residents on Joalyce Drive to evacuate their homes so that fire crews can battle the place. Residents can take shelter in the cafeteria at Prairie Junior High School, 11910 S Kostner Ave., Alsip.

As of late Tuesday afternoon, 123rd Street between Pulaski Road and Kostner Avenue remains closed to traffic. Suggested alternative routes are 127th and 115th Streets.

The National Weather Service issued a red flag warning for critical weather fire conditions that remains in effect until Tuesday evening. Low humidity and high winds combined with dead foliage left on the ground from winter are contributing to this fire’s erratic nature.

Video by Lisa Molloy taken 11:30 a.m. May 1 across the street from Sertoma Centre in Alsip.

Cover photo: Alsip Fire Department