Grass Fire Threatens Target Center in Topeka

A fairly extensive, out-of-control grass fire caused by a spark from an arcing Westar Energy power line got within an estimated 300 feet of the Target Distribution Center early on Tuesday afternoon in south Topeka before crews put the fire out.

More than 10 acres were burned, fire officials said.

There was no apparent damage to any structure, and no injuries, but crews were still spraying the dry grass area near the 5400 block of S.W. Wenger about 1:30 p.m.

The blaze was reported about 12:45 p.m. on the west side of the sprawling center.

The fire went over a large berm over the southwest part of the Target Distribution Center area.

Winds blowing southeast were reported at 15 mph as Topeka Fire Department crews responded to the blaze, calling on both brush trucks.

Mutual aid was requested about 1:05 p.m. from Shawnee Heights Fire District crews, and Metropolitan Topeka Airport Authority crews were also brought in.

Westar had officials on scene investigating, as a power outage was reported in the area.