Dodge City, Kansas – Any spark could turn into a fast-moving wildfire within minutes Monday afternoon as dry air and gusty winds combine across southwest Kansas.
According to the National Weather Service in Dodge City, a Fire Weather Watch takes effect from 1 p.m. through 9 p.m. Monday, covering more than 20 counties including Ford, Finney, Seward, Meade, and Clark. Southwest winds will reach 15 to 25 mph with gusts up to 35 mph, while relative humidity drops as low as 8 percent.
This combination creates prime conditions for fires to ignite and spread rapidly, especially along open grassland and near roadways like U.S. Highway 50 and U.S. 83. In Dodge City, Garden City, and Liberal, even small sources such as vehicle sparks or discarded cigarettes could trigger fires that quickly move out of control.
Emergency managers urge residents to avoid all outdoor burning, secure trailer chains, and delay any activity that could create sparks. farmers and ranchers should check equipment before use and keep water sources nearby.
Conditions will begin improving after sunset Monday, but officials warn that a Red Flag Warning could still be issued if conditions intensify.
