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High winds across Kansas on Thursday rapidly spread several grass fires, forcing evacuations and prompting road closures. In Reno County, a large grass fire north of Hutchinson burned about 500 acres, leading to the evacuation of Plum Creek Elementary School in Buhler and nearby areas. The fire started in a ditch around 12:50 p.m., spread quickly, and was mostly contained by 3 p.m. Fire crews remained on scene due to burning trees and hay bales. No homes were damaged, though officials will assess possible damage to outbuildings.

Additional grass fires were reported northwest of Goddard and southeast of Russell. Some of the fires were visible on satellite imagery, according to the National Weather Service. Wind gusts reached up to 61 mph in the Wichita area before tapering off later in the day.

Separately, I-70 was temporarily closed between Colby and Goodland due to blowing dust and reduced visibility, raising concerns of conditions similar to a deadly March dust storm.