Fire Emergencies Announced in North Dakota Amid Growing Risks
BISMARCK, N.D. — As of October 12th, 2024 at 11 p.m., authorities in Burleigh and Emmons Counties have enforced a state of Fire Emergency along with immediate burn prohibitions that will last until November 15th or until rescinded due to the exceptionally dry conditions observed in these areas. These restrictions come as the counties face threats from ongoing wildfires.
Conditions Fueling Wildfire Risks
A significant portion of North Dakota is grappling with dry weather scenarios that not only heighten the probability of fires but also challenge emergency response teams attempting to manage them effectively. The latest updates indicate a crucial need for resources to remain available statewide to combat ongoing fire incidents.
The burn restrictions will continue when the Rangeland Fire Danger Rating reaches High, Very High or Extreme levels and/or when Red Flag Warnings are issued by the National Weather Service (NWS). It’s important to note that Bismarck has permanent rules regarding open burning as part of its adopted fire prevention code.
Guidelines Under Burn Restrictions
Prohibited Activities Include:
- No open flames: This covers campfires and controlled burns (including wood stacks and branches).
- Banning agricultural burning: All types including fireworks are prohibited during this period.
- Limiting off-road travel: Motorized vehicles must restrict their travels strictly to paved or gravel surfaces.
Allowed Devices Under Certain Conditions:
- If using controlled devices like propane grills (gas/charcoal) or patio heaters, they must be placed on hard non-flammable surfaces at least 15 feet away from any combustible material with water or an extinguisher readily available on site.
The consequence for disregarding these regulations can lead to penalties classified as Class B misdemeanors under NDCC 37-17.1-10.1; this could result in fines up to $1,500 and/or up to thirty days incarceration.
Status Updates on Ongoing Fires
Status checks indicate various wildfires across North Dakota are being closely monitored; particularly notable is the Bear Den Fire near Mandaree which is currently about 65% contained while Watford City’s Elkhorn Fire reports around 60% containment as of recent updates provided late into the evening hours on October 12th, following intense firefighting efforts by multiple agencies including local county units and support teams from outside states such as New Mexico via aerial assistance operations via National Guard helicopters collaborating directly with ground teams effectively combating these blazes spanning thousands of acres collectively since their onset earlier this month.
Delineation Of Current Major Fires (as of October dates)
| Fire Name & Location | Total Area Affected | Status |
|---|---|---|
| The Elkhorn Fire south Watford City | An estimated area exceeding 10 thousand plus acres | Around %60 contained |
| The Bear Den nearby Mandaree | 11 thousand seven hundred fifty plus bergs 640 min starm(intersection) |