BISMARCK, N.D. (AP) - North Dakota Gov. Jack Dalrymple has declared a fire emergency in response to dry conditions, unseasonably high temperatures and high winds.
The order includes a burn ban for areas classified in the fire danger rating system as high, very high, or extreme, as well as for red flag warnings in particular areas.
Burning will be allowed in areas rated low or moderate for fire danger, if approved by local authorities.
The governor also activated the state's emergency operations plan to assist local and tribal officials, and implement appropriate recovery actions and future measures. The governor also authorized the use of National Guard resources if needed.
Weather conditions have prompted at least 15 counties and one tribal nation to issue fire emergency declarations and implement burn bans or other fire restrictions.