The Kansas Division of Emergency Management (KDEM) and its Emergency Support Function partners are actively monitoring and providing resources to counties across Kansas dealing with wildland fires.

KDEM requested a Fire Management Assistance Grant (FMAG) through FEMA for the wildland fire affecting Yates Center in Woodson County. FEMA approved the request on March 14, recognizing the fire as a major disaster.

The FMAG covers 75 percent of the federal cost. It supports state, local, and tribal governments in managing and controlling fires on public or private lands that pose a significant risk of destruction.

On March 13, Governor Laura Kelly issued a verbal disaster emergency declaration due to heightened wildland fire conditions across much of Kansas. KDEM activated the State Emergency Operations Center in Topeka to assist local responders with support from Emergency Support Function partners.

Strong winds, low humidity, and high temperatures are contributing to extreme fire behavior, making any new fires likely to spread rapidly and become difficult to control.