Kansas Governor Declares Emergency Over Wildfire Threat

Extreme fire risk prompts state of disaster declaration as strong winds and dry conditions loom.

Published on Feb. 17, 2026

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Kansas Governor Laura Kelly has issued a verbal state of disaster emergency proclamation due to the high threat of wildfires across the state over the next few days. The declaration allows the state to mobilize resources and personnel to assist local first responders in addressing any emergencies that may arise.

Why it matters

Kansas has experienced an increase in severe wildfires in recent years due to drought conditions and climate change. This emergency declaration ensures the state can rapidly deploy firefighting assets and coordinate with local authorities to protect lives and property.

The details

The National Weather Service has issued red flag warnings for northwest and southwest Kansas, with forecasts calling for strong winds of 30-40 mph and gusts up to 65 mph, combined with humidity as low as 10%. A fire watch is also in effect for much of north-central, northeast and east-central Kansas on Tuesday. The Kansas Forest Service is urging the public to avoid any activities that could spark a fire and to report any smoke or flames immediately.

  • The state of disaster emergency proclamation was issued on Sunday, February 16, 2026.
  • Red flag warnings and fire watches are in effect from Tuesday, February 18 through Thursday, February 20, 2026.
  • The State Emergency Operations Center will open on Tuesday, February 18, 2026 to coordinate state resources.

The players

Gov. Laura Kelly

The Governor of Kansas who issued the state of disaster emergency proclamation.

Bill Waln

The Kansas Forest Service fire management officer who urged the public to be cautious and report any fires.

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What they’re saying

“With high winds and dry conditions, there is a high risk for wildland fires over the next few days. I urge Kansas residents to avoid activities that could spark fires, remain alert to changing conditions, and follow local emergency guidance.”

— Gov. Laura Kelly (ksn.com)

“Across Kansas, we're beginning to see the seasonal shift into more typical fire weather patterns. We strongly urge the public to avoid activities that could spark a fire and to report any smoke or fire immediately. Early reporting is critical to keeping fires small and protecting lives and property.”

— Bill Waln, Kansas Forest Service fire management officer (ksn.com)

What’s next

The State Emergency Operations Center will open on Tuesday, February 18, 2026 to coordinate state resources and assist local first responders as needed.

The takeaway

This emergency declaration highlights the increasing threat of wildfires in Kansas due to climate change and the importance of public vigilance and coordination between state and local authorities to rapidly respond to and contain any fires that may break out.