Wichita, Kansas – Fires could explode and spread unpredictably across central and southeast Kansas this afternoon as powerful winds up to 50 mph combine with dry air to create extreme grassland fire danger through 8 p.m. Sunday.
According to the National Weather Service in Wichita, a Red Flag Warning remains in effect for a large portion of the state, including Wichita, Hutchinson, Salina, and Emporia. Sustained north winds between 25 and 35 mph, with gusts reaching 45 to 50 mph, are creating conditions where any fire could rapidly grow and become uncontrollable.
Relative humidity values dropping to around 29 percent are further drying out grasses and vegetation, increasing the likelihood that even a small spark could ignite a fast-moving wildfire. The strongest impacts are expected along major corridors such as I-35, I-135, and U.S. 50, where open fields can allow fires to spread quickly.
Officials warn that fires under these conditions may behave erratically, making them difficult to contain and dangerous for both residents and first responders.
Outdoor burning and any activity that could create sparks should be avoided immediately. The most critical conditions will persist through 8 p.m., and additional warnings may be issued if fire danger continues into the evening.
