Kansas wheat producers face significant challenges for the 2026 crop due to drought, freeze damage, and disease pressure, according to K-State specialists. While the season began favorably, weather extremes have raised concerns, leading to observations of crown rot and potential abandonment of some fields. Timely rainfall may still improve conditions.

On May 14, Governor Laura Kelly declared a state of disaster in Kansas due to wildland fires affecting several counties. State agencies are collaborating to provide resources, including firefighting support from the National Guard and over 90 fire trucks and firefighters. Conditions remain dynamic, posing risks to responders and communities.

Trisha Moore, a K-State associate professor, is assessing sediment buildup in the Kansas River affected by water injection dredging at Tuttle Creek Reservoir. Collaborating with various institutions, the team monitors sediment variation, which seems to be within natural levels. The project aims to balance sediment removal with ecological health downstream.

Health officials in northeast Kansas confirmed a measles case in an Osage County resident, who was exposed out of state. While no current spread is noted in Kansas, individuals at a related church exposure event are advised to monitor symptoms until May 24. Vaccination is encouraged to prevent further infection.

The Kansas Division of Emergency Management has requested FEMA conduct Preliminary Damage Assessments following severe storms from April 26-27. Affected counties include Cherokee, Morris, Osage, Saline, and Wabaunsee. The assessments aim to evaluate damage to public infrastructure, ultimately guiding federal disaster assistance and long-term recovery efforts for affected communities.

Kansas Department of Health and Environment is monitoring individuals after a high-risk exposure to Andes hantavirus, with no confirmed cases in the state. Stay informed as KDHE provides updates.