Wildfire forces road closure in Kearny County

WICHITA, Kan. (KWCH) - The Kansas Forest Service is helping to combat a fire in Kearny County, located about six miles west of Lakin. Aviation and ground resources from nearby areas are assisting in the effort.

The Forest Service said the fire is moving rapidly north and east toward Highway 50, driven by wind gusts exceeding 30 mph, which makes containment challenging.

“Conditions are dangerous, if you are in the area, please be aware of the situation and take heed to direction given by the local authorities,” the Forest Service stated in a Facebook post.

The Kansas Department of Transportation temporarily closed U.S. 50 between the Hamilton County Line and Kearny County Line, as well as K-25, three miles west of Lakin, due to reduced visibility and smoke from the fire. The highway has since been reopened.