A grass fire broke out north of Hutchinson Thursday afternoon as high winds ripped across Reno County, rapidly pushing flames through dry fields and prompting
sheriff's deputies to manage traffic while helping with voluntary evacuations. The Hutchinson fire was reported around 1 p.m. near 82nd Avenue and Plum Street, with smoke visible for miles on KSN's SkyView camera overlooking the city. Poudre Fire Authority and partners hit the scene hard at the base of the foothills, but gusty conditions made containment tough. Reno County Sheriff's Office posted that deputies were blocking north of 56th Avenue between Lorraine and Monroe streets around 1:16 p.m. to keep people safe and let crews work—no mandatory evacuation order issued yet. Buhler school district moved Plum Creek Elementary students and staff to Crosspoint Church at 1410 E. 30th by 1:45 p.m., telling parents to pick up there after 2:15.
If you are smelling smoke in Wichita it is likely from the fire just north of Hutchinson. Also a large plume from a fire Southeast of Russell. pic.twitter.com/AefrCiyCUQ
— Frank Waugh, CBM KAKE 🐍 🐢=🌧️ (@FrankWaughKAKE) December 18, 2025
Kansas State Fairgrounds stepped up around 2 p.m., opening barns for emergency horse sheltering through Gate 10 with separation by travel history and supplies needed from owners. The fire in Hutchinson KS today ties into statewide windy, dry weather with red flag warnings amplifying risks. Colorado Department of Homeland Security monitored for possible state aid as local teams battled spot fires.
High Winds And Statewide Alerts
Reno County fire north Hutchinson saw quick action from deputies focusing on traffic control rather than forced exits. Sheriff stressed the voluntary approach avoided panic while securing danger zones. Plum Creek's move protected kids during peak wind-driven spread. Parents swarmed Crosspoint Church post-evacuation; district hotline handled queries at 620-543-2258. No injuries reported from school operations.
Also Read: Fort Collins Fire: Heavy Smoke, Strong Winds Complicate Multi-Alarm Wildfire As Poudre Fire Authority Responds Near Laporte Avenue
Hutchinson KS high winds fire risk peaked Thursday with KSN weather noting gusts complicating fights across Kansas. Reno County wildfire evacuation stayed limited but Kansas State Fair's horse aid showed ripple effects. Firefighters watched for overnight flare-ups.
