GREAT BARRINGTON, Mass. - Crews are days into the fight at the Butternut Fire and some much-needed rain finally started falling. It may not have extinguished the flames, but firefighters say it’s helping.

“Today's rain has slowed growth and allowed our crews to make great progress cutting fire breaks through the woods to control the expansion. We’ve stated before we're going to state it again those control lines are holding,” said Lt. Brian Mead, PIO for the Great Barrington Fire Department.

The Great Barrington Fire Department says the fire is covering roughly 1,200 acres and there has not been significant spread since Wednesday. 

The rain has helped with the smoke but it’s still there and people with respiratory problems should take precautions. 

“As of now, no homes are in danger, however, overnight patrols and monitoring will continue... and resources will be dispatched as needed. Area residents can expect the smoke to linger in the air for the foreseeable future,” said Lt. Mead.

Firefighters are urging residents to avoid this area around East Mountain and the ski area. 

They’re thanking people for donations but say they can now drop off food and water to local food banks instead.