TOPEKA —Governor Laura Kelly issued a verbal state of disaster emergency proclamation at 9 a.m. Thursday due to increased fire weather conditions that begin Thursday and continuing through the middle of next week, according to a statement from the Adjutant General’s Department. This declaration allows resources to be prepositioned to provide state assistance.
Still looking at a higher fire danger Thursday and Friday. Burning is highly discouraged. #kswx #wxtwitter #firewx pic.twitter.com/o33iVqJ8Bv
— NWS Dodge City (@NWSDodgeCity) September 27, 2023
Gusty south winds and low relative humidity will result in very high grassland fire danger for much of the area for today and especially Friday. Outdoor burning is not recommended and be sure to be mindful of anything that may cause a spark. #kswx pic.twitter.com/wHKE0FJhih
— NWS Wichita (@NWSWichita) September 28, 2023
Warmer conditions, strong winds and low relative humidities, will create high to very-high fire weather conditions especially in the central and western regions of the state.
“I urge everyone across the state to use extreme caution and avoid burning, if at all possible,” Governor Kelly said. “Please keep yourself and your community safe and use extra precautions anytime you are doing any burning.”
“This declaration will allow Kansas Forest Service and our partners to be prepared with resources readily available if needed,” said Mark Neely, State Fire Management Officer.
The Kansas Division of Emergency Management is at an enhanced steady state to assist counties and local responders if requested.