Goodland, KS – Fires could spread rapidly across northwest Kansas and southwest Nebraska by midday Saturday, with peak developing during the afternoon and escalating again overnight.
According to the National Weather Service in Goodland, a Red Flag Warning is in effect from 11 a.m. Saturday through 4 a.m. Sunday for counties including Thomas, Sheridan, Graham, and Red Willow. Relative humidity will drop to around 5 percent while southwest winds increase to 10 to 20 mph, with gusts up to 30 mph. The most critical window begins around 1 p.m. and continues through 6 p.m., when winds and heat align.
Conditions briefly ease early Saturday evening before worsening again late at night. A cold front will push through the region, shifting winds sharply to the north with gusts near 45 mph. This shift could reignite smoldering hotspots and rapidly spread flames in new directions, especially along open fields and rural highways like U.S. 83 and Highway 36.
Residents are urged to avoid any outdoor burning, secure tow chains, and avoid parking on dry grass. Even small sparks can trigger fast-moving fires under these conditions.
The warning remains in effect through early Sunday morning, with fire risks continuing until winds subside and humidity improves.
