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Sunday grass fire caused by downed power line

fire  (AP) — A fast-moving southeast Kansas grass fire apparently caused by a downed power line burned hundreds of acres and damaged at least two structures but caused no serious injuries.

Galena fire Chief Bill Hall says about 600 acres were damaged by Sunday’s fire, which was fueled by high winds. Firefighters from seven area towns responded to help Galena fight the blaze.

Two garages used for storage were damaged but the fire didn’t hit any homes.

Julie Maus, spokeswoman for Empire District Electric Co., says high winds took down a transmission line north of Galena, causing a brief power outage for about 900 customers. Other utility poles were damaged.

The National Weather Service says fire danger in the region would remain above normal for most of the week.

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