The Kansas Department of Transportation is discouraging all non-essential travel across southwest Kansas this evening, Feb. 18, due to extremely high fire dangers and possible dense smoke, which could greatly reduce visibility.

According to the National Weather Service, winds are predicted to shift and increase the likelihood of dense smoke between about 6-11 p.m. tonight. Travel is strongly discouraged in southwest Kansas during this time, especially in the Ford County area.

Several fires in southwest Kansas that began yesterday or last night are still active today. Blowing smoke from these fires is impacting motorists at times.

Impacts on visibility for drivers could make it necessary to close highways at times. For the latest updates on road closures and conditions, visit kandrive.gov, or call 511 in Kansas or 866-511-5368 outside Kansas.