Red Flag Warning Issued for Central Kansas Counties Due to Extreme Fire Danger
The National Weather Service has issued a Red Flag Warning for Russell, Lincoln, Barton, and Ellsworth counties effective Tuesday due to high winds and low humidity.
Alert Details
The National Weather Service in Wichita has issued a Red Flag Warning for extreme grassland fire danger. This alert, issued by NWS Wichita KS, indicates that critical fire weather conditions are either occurring now or are imminent. This warning replaces the previously issued Fire Weather Watch for the region.
Affected Areas
The warning covers the following counties in Central Kansas:
- Russell
- Lincoln
- Barton
- Ellsworth
What You Should Do
Outdoor burning is strongly discouraged while this warning is in effect. Residents should be aware that any ignitions will have the potential to become wildfires quickly and spread rapidly. Appropriate officials and fire crews in the field should be advised of these critical fire weather conditions. Residents are encouraged to prepare for potential fire hazards.
Expected Conditions
- Winds: Southwest winds ranging from 25 to 35 mph, with gusts reaching up to 45 mph.
- Relative Humidity: Levels are expected to drop as low as 17 percent.
- Fire Hazard: The combination of strong winds, low relative humidity, and warm temperatures will contribute to extreme fire behavior and extreme grassland fire danger.
Timeline
The Red Flag Warning is effective from 12:00 PM CST on Tuesday, February 17, 2026, until 7:00 PM CST the same day.
Source: NOAA Official Notice