With an increased fire danger across parts of Kansas, Governor Kelly issued a verbal declaration of disaster emergency Wednesday evening.
This declaration lets the state get fire crews in place ahead of time to help with any grass fires that break out. This includes crews to help fight fires from the air. Parts of Kansas are seeing above average temperatures and high winds. Combined with drought conditions, this warm winds weather could help fires spread dangerously fast.
“Fire season is in full-force, and we must all do our part to protect all Kansans,” Governor Kelly said. “I urge everyone across the state to use extreme caution and avoid burning if at all possible.”
“The persistent drought is leaving the majority of Kansas very vulnerable to wildfires,” said Mark Neely, Fire Management Officer for Kansas Forest Service. “Fires will move quickly and be difficult to contain. Please be careful outside and report all fires immediately.”
Outdoor burning is not recommended at this time and several burn bans are in place across the state. People are also urged to keep from tossing cigarettes from their cars.
