A Red Flag Warning is in effect for north-central, northeast, and east-central Kansas from 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. Friday due to critical fire weather conditions. This warning means fires can start easily and spread rapidly.

Issued by the National Weather Service in Topeka, the warning urges residents to avoid outdoor burning and use caution. Northwest winds will range from 12 to 22 mph, with gusts up to 35 mph north of I-70 and 25 to 30 mph south. Humidity levels could drop as low as 19%, creating a high fire risk.

The affected counties include Republic, Washington, Marshall, Nemaha, Brown, Cloud, Clay, Riley, Pottawatomie, Jackson, Jefferson, Ottawa, Dickinson, Geary, Morris, Wabaunsee, Shawnee, Douglas, Lyon, Osage, Franklin, Coffey, and Anderson.

Officials strongly discourage fire-related activities. Residents should secure flammable materials, avoid sparks, and report any wildfire signs immediately. Firefighters remain on high alert as dry, windy conditions persist.