Wildfires moving in Saline and Phillips Counties, evacuations ordered
SALINA, Kan. (KSNW) -- Firefighters are racing to get control of wildfires burning in Saline and Phillips Counties Thursday afternoon.
Saline County
The Saline County fire became visible on satellite around 1 p.m. It is northwest of Salina and north of Interstate 70, near Hedville Road and Watkins Road.
Saline County officials said Thursday an evacuation notice has been issued for all those within two miles of Hohneck and Watkins Roads. If you are in this area, leave now and avoid the area.
The county also said the interstate has low to no visibility due to smoke in the area of I-70 and I-135. Avoid the interstate and take an alternate route if you must travel. Air support is en route to the area.
Kansas Highway Patrol Trooper Ben Gardner said the fire is moving away from I-70 and U.S. 81, but it is moving fast.
The Kansas Forest Service said on Facebook that Kansas Forest Service Engine 64, personnel and Tanker 802 have responded to the fire.
Emergency responders are working to keep the public and firefighters safe, and fire behavior is erratic, so please stay out of the area. Use caution if driving on the Interstate and don't drive into heavy smoke.
Remember that if drones are spotted near a wildfire all aviation will be grounded, please don't fly drones or UAS near wildfires.
Phillips County
Another wildfire is being worked in Phillips County. The Phillips County Sheriff's Office said on Facebook that Phillipsburg Fire has requested assistance from Kirwin and Logan for a grass fire north of Kansas Highway 9 between Glade and Speed.
Phillips County Fire (KSN News)
The PCSO said to avoid the area and, if you happen to see smoke anywhere else in the county, call 911. As of now, no evacuations have been issued for the fire in Phillips County
KSN News will continue to monitor the situation. We will update this story as more details become available.
In the meantime, drivers should avoid the areas and watch for firefighters moving quickly through the area.
The dry conditions with strong winds have increased the chance of wildfires in Kansas this week.