Governor Tours Damage From Weekend Wildfires in Western North Dakota

MCKENZIE CO., N.D. (KVRR) — Gov. Doug Burgum is giving thanks to the many fire departments that jumped into action after at least six wildfires broke out in western North Dakota over the weekend.

He toured some of the damage and says there are at least twenty different agencies that are helping out.

As of this morning, large fires near Grassy Butte and Mandaree were still considered zero percent contained.

A 26-year-old man died of critical injuries from fire in the Ray, North Dakota area.

Other people have reported injuries.

At least four residences were reported to be destroyed by fire, along with numerous outbuildings.

Ag Commissioner Doug Goehring says the “Hay Hotline for Rancher Relief” at (701) 328-5110 will help connect ranchers with excess hay.

North Dakota Insurance Department is urging those affected by the wildfires to document their damages.

“You know as we say the volunteers they are amazing North Dakota they run towards the emergencies they run towards the fire instead of running away from it and that’s what saved our communities saved homes, saved lives this past weekend,” said Burgum.

The state will be assessing damage once the fires are extinguished

The current state-level threshold to request a presidential disaster declaration for North Dakota is $1,472,488, and if there are enough qualifying damages, the state will likely move forward with a disaster declaration.

People looking to learn more are being directed to visit ndresponse.gov for up to date information.