Grass Fire Breaks Out Along I-80 Near McClelland, Iowa

Multiple fire departments respond to contain the blaze on Monday afternoon.

Published on Feb. 9, 2026

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A grass fire erupted on Monday afternoon near McClelland, Iowa along Interstate 80 around mile marker 12. Several fire departments, including crews from Underwood, Lewis Township, and Treynor, were called in to assist the McClelland fire department in bringing the fire under control.

Why it matters

Grass fires along major highways can pose a serious threat to public safety, causing visibility issues for drivers and potentially leading to accidents. The quick response from multiple fire departments helped to contain the blaze and prevent any further damage or disruption to traffic along I-80.

The details

The fire was first reported around 1:42 p.m. on Monday, with Iowa Department of Transportation cameras capturing images of the flames and heavy smoke along the interstate. Several agencies were dispatched to the scene to support the McClelland fire crews in extinguishing the blaze. By 2:45 p.m., Pottawattamie County Emergency Management confirmed that the fire was under control, though some crews remained on site to monitor for any hot spots.

  • The fire was first reported around 1:42 p.m. on Monday, February 10, 2026.
  • By 2:45 p.m. on February 10, 2026, the fire was under control.

The players

McClelland Fire Department

The local fire department responsible for responding to the grass fire near McClelland, Iowa.

Underwood Fire Department

One of the fire departments that assisted the McClelland Fire Department in containing the grass fire.

Lewis Township Fire Department

Another fire department that responded to the grass fire near McClelland, Iowa.

Treynor Fire Department

The third fire department that helped the McClelland Fire Department in extinguishing the grass fire.

Pottawattamie County Emergency Management

The agency that confirmed the fire was under control and that adequate resources were on the scene.

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The takeaway

The quick and coordinated response from multiple fire departments helped to contain the grass fire along I-80 near McClelland, Iowa, preventing any further damage or disruption to traffic. This incident highlights the importance of having well-trained and equipped emergency responders to address such situations on major highways.