Windy weather today could cause hazardous travel conditions in Kansas and a danger of wildfires.

 

High winds return to southeast Kansas and northeast Oklahoma today as another cold front moves across the region. In the Coffeyville area today, we can expect 15 to 22 mph winds with gusts reaching nearly 40mph. Gusts in northeast Oklahoma are forecast to reach 30mph.

 

Windy conditions will worsen moving west across the state with western parts of the state seeing sustained winds of 35 to 40 and gusts of 60 mph. These winds can lead to blowing dust, reducing visiblity on roadways. High winds in northwest Kansas prompeted the closure of eastbound I-70 for more than two hours overnight as a semi truck overturned on the Interstate between Goodland and Colby.

 

The windy conditions alse mean an increased chance of wildfires. Area fire departments strongly advise against any kind of outdoor burning as dry conditions and high winds persist.