Officials estimate Burklund/Axelton fire burned 8,200 acres

Preliminary estimates show the Burklund/Axelton fire burned at least 8,200 acres in Riley and Pottawatomie counties.

Deputy Riley County Fire Chief Doug Russell told county commissioners Thursday that the fire is still estimated to be 90% contained.

Russell says about 60% of the burned area is within the Riley County boundaries.

Officials previously stated that what remains of the fire no longer poses a threat to homes or structures. One home was destroyed and several others had to be evacuated as a precaution. No injuries have been reported.

County emergency officials are still operating on the state’s backup radio communication system, following an April 1 cybersecurity incident involving the county’s P25 radios. Emergency Management Director Russell Stukey says he expects to be able to share additional information with commissioners during a Monday executive session.