Area fire crews are battling both flames and extreme heat while responding to a large grass fire just north of Banquete.
According to Michael Clack, the fire began around 3 p.m. Wednesday on Cindy Ln. after initial reports of smoke in the area.
When firefighters arrived, they discovered an abandoned house engulfed in flames and a grass fire threatening nearby homes. Crews also had to navigate dangerous conditions including downed power lines that were actively sparking…