GOVERNOR ISSUES DISASTER DECLARATION FOR WILDLAND FIRES

Gov. Jeff Colyer, M.D., has issued a verbal disaster declaration for several western Kansas counties battling wildland fires that have sprung up this evening.

“We want to do everything we can to help the local first responders get these fires under control as quickly as possible,” said Colyer. “This declaration will allow our state agencies to take whatever steps are necessary to assist when requested.”

The Kansas Division of Emergency Management activated the State Emergency Operations Center in Topeka to an enhanced steady-state level 3 this morning. The SEOC is staffed by personnel from KDEM and the Kansas National Guard. They are in contact with the Office of the State Fire Marshal and Kansas Forest Service. The Kansas National Guard has UH-60 Black Hawk helicopters and crews on standby to assist ground crew with aerial water drops.

US40 is closed from Sharon Springs west to the Colorado state line due to a fire along the highway and low visibility. This fire is very dangerous and motorists should avoid travel to this area.

Due to dry conditions, coupled with high winds, the National Weather Service has issued Red Flag fire warnings through 9 p.m. for a number of western Kansas counties. A Red Flag warning means critical fire weather conditions exist. Winds are forecast at 25 to 35 mph with gusts to 55 mph and relative humidity as low as five percent. Fire danger will only be slightly less on Wednesday.

KDEM officials are reminding Kansans to avoid any activity that could create a spark and start a new fire. Because open fires can quickly get out of control, even for experienced fire fighters, people should avoid open burning. Check with the local authorities in each county for information regarding county burn bans. Do not drive on or stop your car on dry or tall grass because your exhaust can spark a fire; do not throw cigarettes on the ground. Check and re-check any recent fires for rekindling.