Kansas Adjutant General's Department
Governor Laura Kelly issued a state of disaster emergency verbal declaration Thursday, May 14 at 5:08 p.m. due to wildland fires in Clark, Ford, Harper, Meade and Morton counties to support local communities with state fire suppression resources. This declaration allows resources to be used to provide state assistance.
“Weather conditions are such that a high risk exists for wildland fires,” Governor Laura Kelly said. “I urge everyone across the state to use extreme caution and avoid burning and any activity that may spark a fire. We encourage residents to remain vigilant, follow local emergency guidance, and continue supporting one another as response efforts continue.”
"The Kansas Forest Service and our state partners are actively supporting response efforts to several large wildfires in southwest Kansas caused by lightning activity across the region,” Bill Waln, Kansas Forest Service Fire Management Officer said. “We recognize the stress and uncertainty these fires bring to local communities, ranchers, and families already facing difficult conditions. We are deeply grateful for the dedication, professionalism, and sacrifice of the firefighters, emergency managers, law enforcement officers, and volunteers working long hours to protect lives, property, and natural resources. Their commitment to challenging conditions reflects the very best of Kansas.”
Southwest Kansas will remain in a hot, dry weather pattern through the weekend, with temperatures well above seasonal averages. Relative humidity values are expected to fall into the 15 to 25 percent range during peak heating hours, creating elevated to critical fire weather conditions across portions of the region where fuels remain receptive. Thunderstorm chances will increase during the late afternoon and evening hours through the weekend. While rainfall coverage may remain scattered, any storms that develop could produce lightning, strong outflow winds, and localized heavy rain. A stronger frontal passage is expected early next week, bringing cooler temperatures and improved humidity conditions by Tuesday.
The Kansas Division of Management staffed the State Emergency Operations Center with personnel from the Kansas Forest Service, Office of the State Fire Marshal, Kansas Department of Transportation, and National Weather Service to coordinate state assistance to augment local response.