A brush fire that broke out in the Joshua Hill area Thursday and scorched at least 55 acres over the ensuing days has largely been contained, Fire Chief John Ingram said.
Leverett firefighters will return to the remote and rugged area Monday to ensure the fire is still in check, the fire chief said. A series of thunderstorms brought some relief to the parched region Sunday afternoon and evening
“There are still a bunch of hot spots,” Ingram said, adding the fire is estimated to be approximately 80 percent contained. Residents can expect to continue seeing and smelling smoke over the next few days, he said.
A state police helicopter, using a bucket to scoop water from a nearby pond, joined firefighting efforts on Friday. Nearly 60 firefighters from 16 agencies worked the fire scene on Sunday.
A firefighter suffered a knee injury while fighting the fire, Ingram said.