WICHITA, KS – A stretch of warm spring weather will be accompanied by strong winds and increased fire danger this week across Kansas. Forecasters warn that gusty conditions could create extreme fire hazards, especially on Friday, when very strong winds will move through the region. Residents are urged to avoid outdoor burning as conditions will make it difficult to control any fire that ignites.
According to the National Weather Service, low humidity and gusty winds today will create very high grassland fire danger across central, south-central, and southeast Kansas. By Friday, winds are expected to strengthen significantly, elevating the fire risk to extreme levels. Any fires that start on Friday afternoon or evening will be difficult to contain.
Winds will increase through the week, reaching gusts of 28 mph today and over 40 mph by Friday. Southeast Kansas may also see a few storms late Friday, with the potential for strong storms.
Five-Day Forecast for Kansas
• Tuesday: Sunny, high of 74°F, east-southeast winds at 6-10 mph.
• Wednesday: Partly sunny, high of 72°F, southeast winds at 7 mph.
• Thursday: Sunny, high of 77°F, light winds.
• Friday: Windy, high of 72°F, slight chance of showers. Extreme fire danger expected.
• Saturday: Mostly sunny, high of 67°F, breezy.
Residents should remain cautious of fire hazards and secure loose outdoor items ahead of Friday’s strong winds.
