Kelly Armstrong issued an executive order declaring a statewide fire emergency as drought conditions and wildfire risk intensify across North Dakota amid hot, dry weather. It follows a sharp increase in drought conditions statewide. Drought conditions worsen statewideAccording to the latest U.S. Drought Monitor report released Thursday, more than 56% of North Dakota is now experiencing drought conditions, up from less than 2% three months ago. Local and tribal jurisdictions across North Dakota have issued fire declarations and restrictions in response to the worsening conditions. Get our free mobile appThe emergency declaration directs agencies, including the North Dakota Department of Emergency Services, North Dakota Forest Service, and North Dakota National Guard, to maintain a high level of readiness.