Topeka, KS – A Red Flag Warning is in effect across north-central, northeast, and east-central Kansas from 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. Friday due to critical fire weather conditions. The National Weather Service in Topeka has issued the warning, urging residents to avoid outdoor burning and exercise caution due to high fire risk.
According to the National Weather Service, northwest winds will range from 12 to 22 mph, with gusts up to 35 mph north of Interstate 70 and 25 to 30 mph south of I-70. Relative humidity levels will drop as low as 19%, creating an environment where fires could ignite and spread rapidly.
The affected area includes 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. These conditions make outdoor burning highly dangerous, and officials strongly discourage any fire-related activities.
Residents are advised to secure flammable materials, avoid activities that produce sparks, and report any signs of wildfire immediately. Firefighters and emergency management teams remain on high alert as strong winds and dry conditions persist.
A Red Flag Warning indicates that critical fire weather conditions are present or imminent. Extreme caution is urged to prevent wildfires during this period.
