LOUISVILLE, Ky. (WDRB) -- Kentucky Gov. Andy Beshear declared a state of emergency Thursday as wildfires spread in the eastern part of the state.
Drought conditions across the state have increased the chances of wildfires. Currently, the Kentucky Division of Forestry said there are 31 active fires that are being worked on, 36 contained fires that have stopped spreading, but still require work. There are also 44 fires that are controlled and no longer at risk of spreading.
By declaring a state of emergency, Beshear can mobilize state resources, such as the Kentucky Emergency Management and the Kentucky National Guard. It also activates the state's price gouging laws, which protect families from "grossly overpriced goods and services."
“We are taking action to make sure that Kentucky families and communities have the resources they need,” Beshear said in a news release. “We appreciate everyone on the front lines stepping up to fight the fires, and we pray for their safety and that these fires can be put out quickly.”
Forestry teams from Idaho, Oregon, and Utah have been brought in to help local and state responders.
To view where the active fires are, click here. To learn how to stay safe and prepare for wildfires, click here.
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