Wildfire — Comanche, Kansas

2016-03-22 to 2016-03-29 · Comanche, Kansas

Event narrative

The damage values were shared between Comanche and Barber counties.

Wider weather episode

The largest wildfire in Kansas recorded history started northwest of Alva, OK but quickly moved into Comanche and Barber counties. By the time it was contained, the fire had consumed nearly 275,000 acres in Kansas (and another 90,000 acres in Oklahoma). There were 103 structures damaged or destroyed, including 76 homes (11 a total loss), with $706,000 in livestock loss and $27,000,000 in fencing. Four bridges were destroyed. Fortunately there were no deaths or serous injuries. It was the 10th largest wildfire in U.S. history.

Total cost (as of June 1) was $30,133,000 but that number may continue to rise.

Source: NOAA Storm Events Database, event_id 627375. Narrative written by the NWS forecast office that issued the report.