28 February 2024
WICHITA, Kan. (KSNW) – Burning in the Flint Hills will start soon. According to the Kansas Department of Health and Environment, 2.2 million acres are burned between March and April.
The fire helps preserve the tallgrass prairie ecosystem, control invasive species, reduce woody encroachment from species such as Eastern Red Cedar and provide better forage for cattle. The burning also reduces the risk of wildfires.
However, smoke from the burns can impact air quality across large parts of the state. KDHE will activate the Kansas smoke modeling tool in early March. The computer models use fire data and weather conditions to predict the potential contribution of smoke and air quality impacts to downwind areas.
Impacts of poor quality include burning eyes, runny nose, coughing and illnesses such as bronchitis. People with respiratory conditions, cardiovascular diseases, children and the elderly are more vulnerable to symptoms.
Ways of protecting health on days when smoke is present:
Healthy people should limit or avoid strenuous outdoor exercise
More vulnerable people should remain indoors
Help keep indoor air clean by closing doors and windows and running air conditioners with air filters
Stay hydrated by drinking lots of water
Contact your doctor if you have symptoms such as chest pain, chest tightness, shortness of breath or severe fatigue