Mar 16, 2023

📷: UPDATE: Powerline caused grassfire that burned more 400 acres west of MHK

Posted Mar 16, 2023 3:13 PM

by BECKY GOFF
Little Apple Post

UPDATE: Riley County Fire District #1 says the 400-acre grassfire was caused by a powerline that was struck by a fallen tree limb.

“Steep, rocky terrain, extremely dry fuels, and strong winds made this a difficult fire to control,” said Deputy Fire Chief Doug Russell. “We would get one area extinguished and flying ember would ignite and create another head fire downwind. Thanks to the quick response from multiple agencies, we were able to attack the fire quickly and keep it from spreading to homes.”

. . .

RILEY COUNTY - Just after 3:30 p.m. Riley County Volunteer Fire Crews were called out to the 2500 Block of Hidden Valley Road on the report of a grass fire.

Steep terrain, dry conditions and wind gusting upwards of 45 mph have made containing and extinguishing the fire more challenging.

Riley County Fire called in assistance from Manhattan Fire Department and Fort Riley Fire Department as mutual aid.

Riley County Fire Brush truck refilling with water, photo by Becky Goff
Riley County Fire Brush truck refilling with water, photo by Becky Goff

More than 25 firefighters responded to the fire, and as of 6:00 pm, the fire was approximately 70% contained.

Firefighters lighting backfire to stop Hidden Valley Fire, Photo by Becky Goff
Firefighters lighting backfire to stop Hidden Valley Fire, Photo by Becky Goff

A powerline was determined to be the cause of the fire that damaged more than 400 acres.

Hidden Valley fire picture courtesy of Riley Co. Fire District #1
Hidden Valley fire picture courtesy of Riley Co. Fire District #1
Manhattan Fire Department firefighters refilling brush truck , photo by Becky Goff
Manhattan Fire Department firefighters refilling brush truck , photo by Becky Goff