Salina Post
With the current strong windy weather across central Kansas, Saline County Emergency Management issues warnings and I-70 between Colby and Goodland are reportedly closed.
Saline County Emergency Management statement:
Northwest winds will increase and persist through the afternoon, with sustained speeds of 30 to 40 mph and gusts approaching 60 mph. These conditions will create widespread hazards throughout Saline County.
The combination of strong winds and very dry conditions will result in extreme fire danger. Any grass fire that starts could spread rapidly and be difficult to control. Blowing dust may also reduce visibility, particularly along and west of Salina near I-70.
Weather Timeline and Impacts:
Now until 4 PM:
- Peak impacts expected. Strongest wind gusts, highest fire danger, and greatest risk for blowing dust and sudden visibility reductions, especially near I-70 west of Salina.
Late Afternoon to Early Evening:
- Winds gradually decrease, though fire danger may remain elevated until conditions fully improve.
Safety recommendations:
- Deflate your Christmas decorations and move your trampolines to a safe location!
- Secure loose outdoor items, including trash cans, patio furniture, and holiday decorations.
- Avoid all outdoor burning and activities that could cause sparks.
- Do not park vehicles on dry grass.
- Properly dispose of smoking materials.
- Use caution when driving, particularly in high-profile vehicles.
- If visibility drops due to blowing dust, pull completely off the roadway and wait for conditions to improve.
Kansas Department of Transportation statement:
KDOT has closed both directions of I-70 between Goodland and Colby due to reduced visibility from blowing dust as of 10:22 am on Thursday.
This statement comes after the freeway reopened at around 5:00 am, when it was closed late Wednesday evening.
Motorists are advised to delay non-essential travel until conditions improve.
For the latest updates on road closures and conditions, visit kandrive.gov, or call 511 in Kansas or 866-511-5368 outside Kansas.
Salina Post will provide updates on the reopening of the freeway.
Stay updated with local weather on the US National Weather Service Wichita Kansas Facebook page.
Monitor local weather updates frequently in multiple ways by listening to the NOAA Weather Radio, checking local news and emergency notifications. You can also stay informed by following Saline County and the National Weather Service on social media.
For the latest forecast updates, visit the National Weather Service Wichita office at https://www.weather.gov/ict/. To check forecasts frequently, go to weather.gov.