Beshear declares State of Emergency due to ongoing wildfires across Kentucky

FRANKFORT, Ky. – Gov. Andy Beshear has declared a state of emergency due to wildfires in Kentucky.

According to a release by the governor’s office, several wildfires have been identified across the commonwealth, particularly in eastern Kentucky.

“We are taking action to make sure that Kentucky families and communities have the resources they need,” Beshear says. “We appreciate everyone on the front lines stepping up to fight the fires, and we pray for their safety and that these fires can be put out quickly.”

At the time of the release Thursday afternoon, the Kentucky Division of Forestry reported 31 active wildfires still being worked on that continue to spread and 36 contained fires, which have some containment lines stopping their spread but still require action.

In addition, officials say 44 fires are controlled fires, which no longer present a risk of going beyond control lines.

Kentucky Emergency Management says drought conditions have increased the chance for wildfires, and weather forecasts are predicting a potential for more.

Beshear’s executive order allows the state to activate state resources, including Kentucky Emergency Management and the Kentucky National Guard as needed.

In addition, the Division of Forestry and Kentucky Emergency Management have coordinated assistance from forestry teams from Idaho, Oregon and Utah.

Along with multiple other counties, Metcalfe County is currently under a burn ban. The entirety of Kentucky is also under a burn notice, which prohibits burning before 6 p.m.

Agencies across Warren County have responded to two large brush fires today.

It’s dry outside. Please refrain from burning. If you must burn, please follow the laws set forth by the Kentucky Division of Forestry. Those laws are below. pic.twitter.com/cRf0C24O8K

— Warren County EMA (@WarrenCoEMA) November 8, 2023

You can view the current details on active fires here.