Multiple fire departments responded Friday to a wheat stubble fire in McPherson County, highlighting the fire risks that remain despite recent rainfall.
While much of the county’s grassland appears green thanks to plentiful rain, local fire officials warn that dry wheat fields and stubble remain highly flammable. The situation is made more challenging because many wheat fields are still standing, as soggy ground has delayed harvest for some farmers.
“If it’s too muddy for a combine, it’s too muddy for a fire truck,” local fire crews said in a statement. On Friday, firefighters had to rely on a Polaris Ranger equipped with a small skid unit to finish putting out the blaze after multiple brush trucks became stuck trying to cross the muddy fields.
With several fireworks stands now open throughout McPherson County, officials remind residents to celebrate responsibly and use extra caution when discharging fireworks near fields or dry vegetation.
“Wheat fields are dry enough to catch fire quickly,” the statement read. “Please be vigilant so we can all enjoy a safe holiday weekend.”