PHOTO: Fire destroyed a home northeast of Ottumwa Thursday afternoon as at least five departments were unable to stop the blaze.
Strong winds hampered firefighters' efforts. The home at 17747 110th Ave., was southwest of Hedrick. Emergency Management Coordinator Tim Richmond said Hedrick firefighters quickly called for support from surrounding departments, including Ottumwa and Sigourney.
Flames and black smoke were visible for miles as the fire burned through the home's roof. There were no fire hydrants near the home, and firefighters sent trucks to the nearest ones to refill portable tanks that provided water.
Richmond said he believed the home's occupants were safe, though it was unclear whether anyone was in the residence when the fire began.