On Friday October 18 at 1:27 pm, Geary County Fire was advised of a large fire in the area of US-77 Hwy and Skiddy West Road in Southwest Geary County. The cause of the blaze was undetermined.
Garry Berges said upon arrival on scene, the fire was rapidly moving in a northerly direction aided by the wind. Several structures which included residences and farm buildings were threatened by the fast moving fire. Ten fire units and two support units from Geary County were initially dispatched. Additional resources were requested, which included fire units from Junction City Fire, Grandview Plaza Fire, Herington Fire and Dickinson County Fire Task Force, Ft. Riley, Riley County, Woodbine and White City Fire Departments. Additionally, Kansas Forestry arranged for Tanker 95 based out of Hutchinson to assist due to the terrain and structures being threatened.
Tanker 95 made six water drops which assisted the ground units in bringing the fire under control. The fire was officially under control at 8:22pm. Marion County Fire Task came in and took over monitoring the scene overnight.
A total of 35 fire units made up of pumper trucks for structure protection, brush units and water tankers assisted in the fire suppression. Geary County Sheriff’s Office along with Kansas Wildlife and Parks assisted with traffic control and lending a hand. Geary County Fire Auxiliary assisted by Red Cross provided food and refreshments for the firefighters.
Local farmers and ranchers assisted by helping move cattle and providing additional water support.
Berges said a total of 8 farm sites and residences were threatened by the fast-moving fire. There were no structures damaged. Losses included a heifer calf, semi flatbed trailer, 1550 large round bales of hay, and an unknown amount of fence posts, gates, and barbed wire. Total loss is estimated at $122,000.00.
There were no injuries. An investigation into the cause of the fire was done and it is being listed as undetermined. Investigators found the area of origin but cannot determine the actual cause.