Judge executive declares state of emergency in Harlan Co. due to outbreak of forest fires

HARLAN, Ky. (WTVQ) — Harlan County Judge Executive Dan Mosley has declared a state of emergency due to an outbreak of forest fires causing a strain on first responders.

Mosley made the decision around 3:30 p.m. Sunday.

Over the last three days, six different forest fires have occurred in Harlan County. These fires have resulted in firefighters across the county being in the line of duty around the clock for the last 72 hours, Mosley said.

He added that two firefighters have been injured from the fires.

The first fire happened Friday in the Smith area of the county. Additional fires occurred Saturday in that area as well. Arson is suspected in these fires.

Other fires are currently being fought in the  Catrons Valley and Kenvir communities. Both of these fires in addition to the one at Brookside Saturday have been confirmed to be people attempting to burn debris and the fires “just got out of control,” according to Mosley.

Another fire occurred in the Wallins area on Sunday. In addition to the fires, crews also had to battle a structure fire at Keith.

“I would like to once again thank the Division of Forestry and all of our fire departments and the rescue squad in Harlan County for their tireless work over the last three days protecting life and property.

Please pray for their safety. They are all tired but are doing all they can do to protect citizens and property. May God bless each of them,” Mosley said in a Facebook post.

A burn ban is also in effect until further notice, meaning no outdoor burning is permitted until the ban is lifted.

If you have any information about any of the fires, you’re asked to call the Harlan County Sheriff’s Department at 606-573-1313 or emergency management at 606-573-6082.