Red flag (fire weather) warning in effect as evacuation lifted for NW Kansas community after wildfire
Just after 7: 00 p. m. ET Tuesday, officials lifted an evacuation order for the town of Herndon after a large grass wildfire moved away from the community and crews reported improved containment. The fire is now estimated to be 80% contained and is no longer an immediate threat to the town, allowing residents who sought shelter to return home.
Evacuation lifted as containment improves
Local law enforcement lifted the order for Herndon shortly after 7: 00 p. m. ET Tuesday, clearing the way for residents to return. The fire chief overseeing the response assessed the blaze at 80% containment and indicated it no longer posed a threat to the city limits. No injuries were reported during the incident.
Earlier in the afternoon, the community had been placed under an evacuation order when the fast-moving grass fire advanced toward populated areas. Evacuees had been directed to a shelter at Redeemer Lutheran Church, 808 1st Street in Atwood. Emergency personnel worked through the evening to secure lines and monitor hot spots before allowing re-entry.
Fire behavior and response timeline
Just after 4: 00 p. m. ET Tuesday, emergency management personnel estimated the fire to be roughly 4 to 5 miles northwest of Herndon and moving southeast. That direction of travel prompted the precautionary evacuation order for the town. Crews concentrated on protecting structures, creating containment lines and conducting assessments for potential spot fires downwind of the main blaze.
Firefighters and law enforcement coordinated to keep roads clear and maintain access for emergency vehicles. The rapid spread through dry grass fuel made early detection and aggressive suppression a high priority. By evening, fire personnel had gained the upper hand, bringing containment to the current level and reducing immediate risk to residents.
Weather concerns and ongoing precautions
Officials noted the incident unfolded amid red flag (fire weather) warning conditions, which increase the likelihood of fast-moving wildfires due to low humidity, dry fuels and gusty winds. That statewide or regional alert status underscores why the initial evacuation order was issued promptly when the fire began moving toward populated areas.
Residents returning home are advised to remain cautious. Authorities remind people to check properties for smoldering debris, be alert for changes in wind direction, and follow any remaining guidance from emergency management. While the threat to Herndon has diminished, crews will continue patrols and mop-up operations until the fire is fully contained.
Local officials urged anyone who evacuated to account for neighbors, report any fire-related damage to local authorities, and avoid interfering with post-fire operations. Emergency services emphasized that red flag conditions can return and encouraged preparedness measures, including having evacuation plans and keeping yards and gutters clear of flammable material.
The situation remains under watch as firefighters complete containment work. Residents should continue to monitor local updates and follow instructions from law enforcement and fire personnel as they finalize the response.
