Evacuation order lifted for NW Kansas community after wildfire amid red flag (fire weather) warning
Herndon residents were allowed to return home Tuesday evening after emergency crews gained the upper hand on a fast-moving grass fire that prompted an evacuation earlier in the day. Local the blaze is largely contained and posed no further threat to the small northwest Kansas community.
Evacuation lifted after containment gains
The evacuation order for the town of Herndon was lifted just after 8: 00 p. m. ET Tuesday, when local fire leadership confirmed the blaze was roughly 80 percent contained and no longer moving toward the city. Crews had been pushing to halt the fire’s progress throughout the afternoon and evening, and officials cleared residents to return once immediate risks subsided.
Earlier in the day, the town had been placed under an evacuation order as a large grass fire approached. At about 5: 00 p. m. ET the fire was estimated to be 4 to 5 miles northwest of Herndon and moving southeast. No injuries were reported as of 4: 30 p. m. ET, and shelters had been arranged for displaced residents.
Officials asked those who left to use the shelter established in Atwood at Redeemer Lutheran Church, 808 1st Street, while response operations were ongoing. Emergency personnel encouraged residents to check in with local authorities for final guidance before returning home.
Conditions and response
Firefighters from the Herndon area and surrounding jurisdictions worked through hot, dry conditions that contributed to the rapid spread of grass flames. Local officials noted that fire behavior was aggressive in some areas, prompting an early protective evacuation for the town.
The incident showcased coordinated response between county emergency management and local fire units, with crews focusing on containment lines and protecting structures in the path of the blaze. With the situation largely stabilized, teams shifted to mop-up and patrol operations to prevent any flare-ups as winds and drying fuels persist.
Officials also emphasized that the fire occurred amid elevated fire-weather concerns, including a red flag (fire weather) warning that heightened the risk of fast-moving wildland fires across the region. Residents were reminded that even a small ignition can spread rapidly under those conditions and to exercise extreme caution with outdoor burning, machinery use, and discarded smoking materials.
What residents should know now
People returning to Herndon were advised to watch for downed power lines, hot spots, and minor debris on roadways. Authorities recommended walking the perimeter of properties to check for smoldering vegetation and to report any renewed smoke or fire activity immediately to emergency dispatch.
While no injuries were recorded, officials reiterated that the threat of wildland fire remains when dry fuels and windy conditions persist. Residents were urged to stay informed through local emergency channels and to follow any re-entry instructions given by law enforcement or fire officials.
Emergency teams will continue monitoring the area into the night to ensure full containment and to protect homes and infrastructure from any lingering heat or ember-driven ignitions.
