High winds and dry conditions led to multiple field fires in Sioux County over the weekend, just as officials had warned.
On Friday, Sioux County Emergency Management cautioned residents about a high fire danger heading into the weekend. By Saturday, those warnings proved accurate. The Sioux County Sheriff’s Office reported a fire near the northeast intersection of 390th Street and Larch Avenue, just northwest of Hospers. Farmers with tractors and discs were called in to help contain the flames.
Sioux County Emergency Management Coordinator, Ryan De Kruyf, explains that it can be difficult to know the direct cause of field fires.
Two other fires were reported, one southeast of Chatsworth, near 510th Street and Beech Avenue, where additional equipment was needed to halt the spread. Another fire south of Alton saw 36 bales catch catch ablaze. De Kruyf says people should use extra caution as we wait for more moisture.
He also urges farmers to keep a tractor and disc nearby during harvest. Even if your own field isn’t at risk, you may be able to help contain a fire elsewhere.
No injuries were reported as a result of the fires. To subscribe to the Sioux County Nixle alerts, visit SiouxCountySheriff.com.
