Topeka, KS – A Red Flag Warning has been issued for large portions of Kansas on Monday, as strong winds and dry conditions increase the risk of wildfires. The warning, issued by the National Weather Service, is in effect from noon to 8 p.m. CDT for north-central, northeast, and east-central Kansas, including Topeka, Lawrence, and Manhattan.
According to the National Weather Service in Topeka, the affected areas include Republic, Washington, Marshall, Nemaha, Brown, Cloud, Clay, Riley, Pottawatomie, Jackson, Jefferson, Ottawa, Dickinson, Geary, Morris, Wabaunsee, Shawnee, Douglas, Lyon, Osage, Franklin, Coffey, and Anderson counties. Winds from the southwest are expected to reach 10 to 20 mph, with gusts up to 30 mph, while relative humidity levels could drop as low as 15 percent.
In western Kansas, a separate Red Flag Warning has been issued for Greeley and Wichita counties from noon to 7 p.m. CDT. The National Weather Service in Goodland reports that westerly winds will reach 10 to 20 mph, with gusts up to 30 mph, and humidity levels could fall as low as 9 percent.
Officials warn that any fires that develop under these conditions will spread rapidly. Outdoor burning is strongly discouraged. Residents are urged to avoid activities that could spark fires, such as discarding cigarettes improperly or using equipment that generates sparks.
