Kansas, it may feel like spring, but this warm weather comes with a serious downside—FIRE DANGER. With dry conditions, gusty winds, and no rain in sight, wildfires could spread quickly, and officials are urging everyone to be extra cautious through at least Tuesday.
Here’s what’s happening and what you can do to stay safe.
Fire Danger is High—And It’s Not Letting Up
The National Weather Service has put large parts of Kansas under high fire risk warnings, meaning fires could start and spread FAST. The combination of low humidity, strong winds, and dry grass creates a perfect storm for wildfires.
Why is fire risk so high right now?
- Strong winds – Gusts up to 25-35 mph, which can spread flames in seconds.
- Dry air & low humidity – Moisture in the air is low, meaning grass and brush are drying out.
- No rain – The longer we go without moisture, the worse the fire risk gets.
What this means for you:
NO outdoor burning! Even a tiny spark can ignite a massive fire.
Be careful with your car. Dragging trailer chains or parking over dry grass can create sparks.
Put out cigarettes properly. Tossing a cigarette on the ground in these conditions is a disaster waiting to happen.
Farmers & ranchers: Be extra cautious. Welding, machinery, and other heat sources can start fires.
If you see smoke or fire, CALL 911 immediately. Fires can spread faster than you think.
It’s Warm—Maybe Too Warm for March
Kansas is getting an early taste of spring, with temperatures running 10-20 degrees above normal. While it may feel great, this heat is making things even drier.
Forecast Through Tuesday:
- Wichita: Mid-70s°F (24°C) by Monday.
- Topeka: Near 78°F (26°C), possibly breaking records.
- Kansas City: Staying warm, with highs in the mid-70s°F (24°C).
What Else to Expect:
- Mild nights – Lows will be in the upper 40s to low 50s.
- Breezy afternoons – Winds up to 35 mph.
- NO RAIN. That’s the biggest problem.
Why this matters:
We love warm weather, but with no moisture in the air or the ground, the state is drying out fast. Every warm, dry, and windy day increases the risk of fires spreading quickly.
How You Can Help Prevent Fires
With high fire danger through at least Tuesday, we all need to be extra careful. Here’s what you can do:
Avoid outdoor burning. Fires can get out of control in seconds.
Check local burn bans. Many counties have restrictions in place.
Don’t park over dry grass. Hot exhaust pipes can start fires.
Be careful with farm and ranch equipment. Sparks from machinery can ignite dry grass.
Stay Updated:
- Follow local news & weather alerts for fire danger updates.
- If a Red Flag Warning is issued, it means conditions are EXTREMELY dangerous.
When Will Fire Danger Drop?
Right now, Kansas has no significant rain in the forecast. There’s a small chance of cooler temps by midweek, but until we get moisture, the fire risk stays high.
What could help?
- If humidity increases & winds die down, conditions will improve.
- A cold front midweek might bring relief, but don’t count on it just yet.
