A fire northeast of Alta claimed the lives of several pets and destroyed two outbuildings yesterday morning.
The Storm Lake Fire Department was dispatched to 731 550th St. around 10:12 a.m. yesterday for a reported structure fire. When crews arrived, they found one outbuilding fully engulfed in flames, with the fire spreading to a second nearby structure.
Firefighters from Storm Lake, with mutual aid from the Alta Fire Department, worked quickly to contain the blaze. While crews battled the flames, firefighters and occupants managed to rescue approximately 10 dogs and several cats from the second building. However, several dogs did not survive.
The fire was brought under control, and utilities were secured. Firefighters used thermal imaging to locate and extinguish remaining hotspots, removing sections of ceiling in the process. Alta Fire assisted with overhaul, salvage, and water operations.
The cause of the fire remains under investigation.
New Storm Lake Fire Chief Terence Sinner expressed gratitude to the Alta Fire Department, Buena Vista Regional Medical Center ambulance crews, and the Buena Vista County Sheriff’s Office for their support.
