Dodge City, Kansas – Fires could spread out of control within minutes starting around midday Thursday as powerful winds and extremely dry air take hold across western Kansas.
According to the National Weather Service in Dodge City, a Red Flag Warning is in effect from 12 p.m. to 9 p.m. CDT, with the most dangerous conditions developing after 3 p.m. Southwest winds this morning will shift to the north-northeast during the afternoon, increasing to 25 to 35 mph with wind gusts reaching up to 55 mph. At the same time, relative humidity will drop as low as 10 percent.
The վտանգ is highest across counties including Ford, Finney, Seward, and Meade, where open grassland and agricultural areas can fuel rapid fire growth. Roads such as U.S. Highway 50, U.S. 83, and U.S. 400 may see reduced visibility if fires ignite and spread smoke quickly across roadways.
Any spark, including from vehicles, machinery, or discarded cigarettes, could ignite fast-moving grassfires under these conditions. Residents should avoid all outdoor burning, secure trailer chains, and delay any activity that could produce sparks.
Critical fire conditions will ease after sunset Thursday, but elevated fire risk may continue into Friday as dry conditions persist.
