Dodge City, Kansas – Any spark could explode into a fast-moving wildfire after 11 a.m. Tuesday as wind gusts up to 70 mph combine with humidity as low as 10 percent across southwest Kansas.
According to the National Weather Service in Dodge City, a Red Flag Warning remains in effect from 11 a.m. to 8 p.m. CST for much of southwest and central Kansas, including Finney, Ford, Seward, Meade, Grant, Gray, and Hamilton counties. Southwest to west winds will increase to 30 to 40 mph, with gusts reaching 60 to 70 mph, especially west of U.S. 283. Afternoon temperatures climbing into the 70s will drive relative humidity into the 10 to 15 percent range.
Communities including Dodge City, Garden City, Liberal, Ulysses, and Scott City face rapid fire growth potential, particularly in open grassland areas. Fire officials warn that any ignition could spread quickly and exhibit extreme fire behavior.
Outdoor burning is strongly discouraged. Residents should avoid activities that create sparks, secure trailer chains, and delay welding or agricultural burning.
A Fire Weather Watch remains in effect for Wednesday, when strong winds and low humidity could renew critical fire conditions across the region.
