TOPEKA, KS – Residents across a vast swathe of the central United States are urged to exercise extreme caution as a Red Flag Warning has been issued for much of Kansas, Nebraska, and southwest Iowa, indicating a high risk of wildfires. The warnings, issued by the National Weather Service, are in effect from 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. CST today, Friday, February 28, 2025.
The combination of strong northwest winds and exceptionally low humidity levels has created critical fire weather conditions. In Kansas, the affected areas include a wide range of counties from Republic to Coffey, with sustained winds of 12 to 22 mph and gusts reaching up to 35 mph north of Interstate 70, and 25 to 30 mph south of the interstate. Relative humidity is expected to drop as low as 19 percent.
Further west in Kansas, counties including Phillips, Smith, and Jewell are also under a Red Flag Warning, with similar wind speeds and humidity levels.
Nebraska is experiencing even stronger winds, with gusts reaching up to 45 mph in south-central and eastern regions. Counties from Valley to Richardson are under the warning, with humidity levels dropping as low as 15 to 25 percent. Southwest Iowa, including counties like Pottawattamie and Mills, is also included in the widespread warning.
“Any fire that develops could catch and spread quickly. Outdoor burning is not recommended,” warned the National Weather Service. The combination of strong winds, low relative humidity, and warm temperatures creates conditions ripe for extreme fire behavior.
Residents are urged to take extra precautions to avoid sparks and closely monitor any smoldering fires from recent days. A Red Flag Warning signifies that critical fire weather conditions are imminent or already occurring. Authorities strongly advise against any outdoor burning and encourage the public to remain vigilant throughout the day.
