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Gov. Kelly issues state of disaster emergency for wildland fires

By MSC News

03/13/2025

(MSC News)--Governor Laura Kelly issued a verbal state of disaster emergency proclamation Thursday due to increased fire weather conditions beginning Friday, March 14 and continuing through the weekend. This declaration allows resources to be used to provide state assistance.

“Weather conditions are such that a high risk exists for wildland fires in the coming days,” Kelly said. “I urge everyone across the state to use extreme caution and avoid burning. Help your local firefighters by avoiding any activity that may spark a fire.”

The forecast includes high wind and Red Flag Warnings due to ongoing drought, dry vegetation, and low humidity (mid-20s to low teens). A few isolated storms may develop Friday afternoon that could become strong, and possibly severe, with the main hazard being damaging winds.

"The major concern for this round of fire weather is the consecutive days of elevated fire danger,” said Bill Waln, Fire Management Officer, Kansas Forest Service. “Once a fire is established, it will be very difficult to suppress under these conditions. If there has been any intentional burning in your area, please check and recheck these burns.”

The Kansas Division of Emergency Management will staff the State Emergency Operations Center with their Emergency Support Function partners starting Friday to assist counties and local responders if requested.

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