Governor Burgum declares statewide emergency due to wildfire threat | The mighty 790 KFGO

BISMARCK, N.D. (KFGO) – Gov. Doug Burgum signed an executive order Thursday declaring a statewide fire emergency and activating the state emergency operations plan to provide resources for a rapid response to wildfires given the high fire danger in parts of the state. In the last week alone, nearly 3,500 acres of land burned in North Dakota, with 67 fires reported.

All state agencies, including the North Dakota Department of Emergency Services, the North Dakota Forest Service and the North Dakota National Guard, are directed to maintain a high level of firefighting preparedness.

“Above average temperatures, gusty winds, low humidity and large amounts of dry vegetation have created high fire danger conditions in portions of North Dakota,” Burgum said. “Fires can spread quickly under these conditions, and the state stands ready to respond quickly with resources as needed to help local firefighters and first responders protect lives, homes and communities.”

The declaration allows the state’s adjutant general to activate members of the North Dakota National Guard, including helicopter pilots and those trained in wildfire response, to prepare them to fly if necessary.