A fire that started near Beaver, Oklahoma, Feb. 17, has crossed into Kansas and jumped U.S. Highway 283 near Englewood, Kansas. Towns of Ashland and Englewood are under mandatory evacuation orders as of 2:45 p.m.
The Oklahoma Forestry Services Facebook page estimated the fire in Beaver County, Oklahoma, at approximately 15,000 acres and is exhibiting extreme rates of spread. Local fire departments, county resourcesand multiple state agencies are assisting.
According to OFS, aviation resources were requested; however, wind speeds and gust spread prohibit aviation operations over the fire at the time. Gusts over 65 mph have been observed.
Another fire, the Stevens Fire, started near Hooker, Oklahoma, and is close to crossing over into Kansas. The fire began 7 miles northeast of Hooker, Oklahoma, and U.S. 54 is currently closed between Hooker and Tyrone. Liberal, Kansas, is approximately 14 miles north of this fire, and residents need to be aware.
Fires continue to pop up, and people need to be aware of anything that can cause a spark. Another fire was reported at 2:41 p.m., in Finney County near Meeker and Tennis roads near Garden City. The fire was reported to be a mile and a half long at approximately 3 p.m., and is being pushed by 60 mph winds, according to reports.
The Kansas Forest Service issued a warning on their social media channels Feb. 17.
“Fire Weather Alert: Weather conditions are deteriorating earlier than expected across western Kansas. Humidity levels are dropping, winds are increasing, and fire danger will escalate from Very high to extreme as these conditions continue.
Now is the time to be extra cautious.
—Avoid any outdoor burning
—Do not weld, grind, or operate equipment that could spark
—Secure trailer chains and avoid parking in tall grass
If you see smoke or fire, report it immediately. It only takes one spark under these conditions.”
Kylene Scott can be reached at 620-227-1804 or [email protected].
