Governor Kelly issued a Sate of Disaster Emergency for a wildfire in Finney County.
The fire was declared under control around 8 p.m. Monday, though crews have continued to watch for hotspots overnight. Multiple agencies helped get the fire under control, and local farmers pitched in as well. Governor Kelly’s declaration will help make state resources available for recovery efforts.
“Despite recent rains, there is still a risk of wildland fires across the state,” Gov. Kelly said. “I urge all Kansans to avoid outdoor burning, if possible, and to remain vigilant. It only takes a single spark from a lawn mower, a car engine, an unattended barbecue or other source to touch off a wildfire that could have devastating effects.”
No injuries from the fire have been reported. The Garden City Fire Department confirmed Tuesday that the cause was unintentional, saying that investigators determined the accidental cause to be from a bearing failure in a wheat header.
Officials said the wildfire burned about 700 acres, which led to five home evacuations.
