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RENO COUNTY — Two task forces monitored the fire in the Highlands area near Hutchinson overnight.
Just after 9 p.m., residents in the area were allowed to return to their homes, according to the Reno County Sheriff’s Department.
Residents were advised to use a garden hose to put out any embers that come into yards and not call 911 every time a glow is spotted. If there is an open active flame currently threatening a structure, then call 911.
It is estimated 1200 acres have been burned in the other Reno County fire in Jupiter Hills. It is 80 percent contained.
All roads, except 69th Avenue from Old K-61 to Mayfield and 56th Avenue from Old K-61 to the dead end, have been opened.
The county has declared a state of emergency, which will bring in state resources to help.
Critical fire weather conditions will continue the next few days.
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RENO COUNTY — We continue with another prairie fire reported in the area of 82nd Avenue and Hendricks, which has led to evacuations in the Highlands addition.
According to officials, earlier today, units were dispatched to a large grass fire in the area of 82nd Avenue and Hendricks. The fire was contained and extinguished with no structure damage, just natural grass and trees. Around 1:30 Sunday afternoon there was a rekindle and the fire flared back up. With the strong winds and dry conditions, the fire grew extensively. This fire swiftly moved into the Highland Golf Club area. Fire units from several departments are actively working on these fires. The golf course and residences in this area have been evacuated for their safety. They continue to ask the public to avoid this area so as not to impede the fire units in their duties.
Officials are meeting with residents this evening at First Church of the Nazarine at 43rd & Monroe to discuss a timeline for when they can return to their homes.
The affected area is approximately from 82nd Avenue to 108th Avenue and Monroe Street to Hendricks Street.
No homes or other structures were destroyed with only some siding melting, according to Emergency Management Director Adam Weishaar.
Meanwhile, the Jupiter Hills fire is 80 percent contained. This is the one northeast of Hutchinson.
As we have been telling you, the county has declared a state of emergency, which will bring in state resources to help.
Critical fire weather conditions will continue the next few days. Residents will continue to see smoke and fire crews working in the area throughout the day. You’re asked to stay out of the area.
The damage will still be there several days down the road when crews have left the area, but, for your safety and theirs, please stay out of the area.