Dodge City, Kansas – A fast-moving fire could ignite and spread out of control within minutes across southwest Kansas today as powerful winds and extremely dry air collide during peak afternoon hours.
According to the National Weather Service in Dodge City, a Red Flag Warning remains in effect from 9 a.m. to 8 p.m. Sunday, with northwest winds sustained at 25 to 35 mph and relative humidity dropping as low as 15 percent. These conditions create a critical window where any spark could trigger rapid wildfire growth.
The warning covers much of southwest and central Kansas, including Dodge City, Garden City, Liberal, Hays, Pratt, and Medicine Lodge. Open fields, dry grasses, and agricultural land across the region are especially vulnerable. Officials warn that even routine activities like towing chains, outdoor burning, or using equipment that produces sparks could ignite fires.
Emergency management officials urge residents to avoid any outdoor burning and delay activities that could create ignition. Drivers along U.S. Highway 50 and U.S. 283 should remain alert for sudden smoke or reduced visibility if a fire starts nearby.
Conditions are expected to improve after sunset as winds weaken and humidity levels recover, but fire crews remain on alert into the evening. Additional warnings could be issued if dry and windy patterns persist into early next week.
