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KDHE issues advisory due to prescribed burns
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TOPEKA – The Kansas Department of Health and Environment (KDHE) has issued an Air Quality Health Advisory, as conditions were ideal for burning across the area on April 15, including the Flint Hills. Yesterday’s burning led to increased Air Quality Index (AQI) values across the area this morning. Winds were expected to be 5-15 mph on Thursday from the south so more prescribed fires and smoke were expected to occur before rain chances on Friday. You can view the current air quality, AQI and fire activity for your area on AirNow Fire and Smoke Map.

Burning within the Flint Hills occurs annually to help preserve the tallgrass prairie, control invasive species such as Eastern Red Cedar and Sumac and provide better forage for cattle. Prescribed burning minimizes risk of wildfires and is effective in managing rangeland resources. Smoke from the burns can influence the air quality of downwind areas and can be carried long distances.

Prescribed burns release large amounts of PM and substances that can form ozone. PM and ozone can cause health problems, even in healthy individuals. Common health problems include burning eyes, runny nose, coughing, and illnesses such as bronchitis. Individuals with respiratory issues, pre-existing heart or lung diseases, children, and elderly may experience worse symptoms.

Steps to protect your health on days when smoke is present in your community include:

  • 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 plenty of water.
  • Contact your doctor if you have symptoms such as chest pain, chest tightness, shortness of breath or severe fatigue.

KDHE and partners continue to implement the Flint Hills Smoke Management Plan to help mitigate air quality impacts that result from burning. The plan includes recommendations to minimize and disperse the smoke produced by burning.

For more information about the burning in the Flint Hills and the Flint Hills Smoke Management Plan, visit the Kansas Flint Hills Smoke Management website at https://ksfire.org/?utm_medium=email&utm_source=govdelivery.