UPDATE 7:18 a.m. – Fire crews remain on scene Wednesday morning monitoring flare ups after a large grass fire in northwest Ellis County.

According to Ellis County Director of Fire and Emergency Management Darin Myers, the fire started near construction equipment crews working near 150th Avenue and Severin Road.

The quickly became out of control and traveled about 4.5 miles to the east where fire crews finally got it stopped at Yocemento Avenue. Crews battled rough terrain and limited roads in the area as well as high winds and very dry grass.

Crews from Ness, Trego, Graham, Rooks and Russell counties, along with the Hays Fire Department, provided mutual aid. The Red Cross, Ellis County Sheriff’s Office, Public Works and EMS also assisted.

They also received local support from farm implements and businesses hauling water.

Myers said one firefighter was injured and taken to Hays Medical Center for evaluation. He has since been released.

The majority of the fire crews were released around 3 a.m.

Myers said Ellis County crews will most likely return throughout the next several days to clean up hot spots.

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By CRISTINA JANNEY
Hays Post

Area fire crews are on the scene of a large grass fire in the northwest section of Ellis County as of about 3:45 p.m., the fire was in the area of St. John/St. Andrew Road and 170th Road.

It is unknown at this time if any structures have been affected.

Area residents are asked to stay clear of the area at this time.

The fire was being fanned by wind gusts of 24 miles per hour. Dry conditions persist in the area. Hays has received only 1.41 inches of moisture since January.