Governor Kelly issues state of disaster emergency for wildland fires

Governor Laura Kelly issued a verbal state of disaster emergency proclamation at 5:14 p.m. today due to increased fire weather conditions beginning today and continuing through the weekend. This declaration allows resources to be used to provide state assistance.

Forecasts indicate extended burn period with extreme fire weather over the next 24-48 hours for southwest and south-central Kansas.

Relative humility will be between 5-10 percent with wind gust up to 55-60 mph. The greatest concern is areas of the southwest that have high vegetations loads and have not experienced green up yet this spring.

"I urge all Kansans to refrain from burning during this period of extreme fire danger," Governor Laura Kelly said. "By being vigilant, taking extra precautions, and reporting any fires to your local fire department, the risk of fires getting out of control can be minimized."

"Saturdays weather conditions are quickly deteriorating beyond what was forecasted," Bill Waln, Fire Management Office, Kansas Forest Service said. "Very strong winds and dry conditions will increase potential for extreme fire behavior. It will be imperative prescribed burns implemented the last 72 hours are diligently checked to make sure they don't lose containment. Do not assume all your containment lines are secure if you have not personally checked them. Help prevent unwanted fires."

The Kansas Division of Emergency Management will staff the State Emergency Operations Center will be monitoring the situation and will assist counties and local responders if requested.