Statewide drought all 105 KS counties + fire weather alerts, burn bans/smoke AQI, April-May severe storm/hail/tornado threats + wheat freeze + record heat
Key Questions
Which Kansas counties are under drought declarations?
All 105 Kansas counties, including Pottawatomie and Riley, are under drought conditions following Governor Kelly's proclamation.
What severe weather occurred in Kansas on May 18?
EF3+ tornadoes, hail over 3 inches, 92 mph winds, and flooding struck parts of the state, with EF-1 damage reported in nearby counties.
How many Evergy customers lost power during the storms?
Over 92,000 Evergy customers were without power, and crews are actively working on restoration efforts.
What is the Stage 1 drought declaration for?
The voluntary Stage 1 declaration aims to promote water conservation across affected areas like Manhattan.
How many hours have firefighters logged fighting Kansas wildfires?
Firefighters have logged a total of 9,000 hours, including crews from Riley County and out-of-state support.
What is the status of the Mead Complex fire?
The Mead Complex fire has been contained at 93,000 acres, with conditions improving due to recent rain.
How are cattle ranchers affected by the drought?
Ranchers face difficult decisions as dry conditions persist with little relief from passing clouds.
What cleanup efforts are underway after the storms?
Manhattan and other cities are clearing storm debris, including tree damage and barn destruction, with forestry crews active on roads.
Kelly drought proclamation escalating fires all 105 counties incl Potta/Riley; record 90s heat/humid; May18 EF3+ tornadoes, 3+ inch hail, 92mph winds, flooding; EF-1 damage in nearby counties; 92k Evergy customers affected. New: Stage 1 drought declaration for water conservation; out-of-state firefighters aiding KS wildfire crews; 9,000 total hours logged incl. Riley County; Mead Complex contained at 93k acres; fires calming with rain; cattle ranchers facing difficult decisions amid drought.