Dry, windy weather fuels grass fire concerns

Burning boxes sparked a grass fire south of Topeka late Friday afternoon.

Shawnee Heights fire crews responded around 4:30 p.m. for the 700 block of SE 85th. Several acres were scorched.

The fire got close to several structures, but did not damage any.

Fire officials say a person was burning boxes and the strong winds swept the flames out of control and across a road.

Dry winter conditions have sparked fire dangers. Many areas had burn bans in effect Friday.

"Wind will drive fire conditions," Shawnee Heights Fire Lt. Justin Zuperku said. "Foliage on the ground will drive fire and, most of the time that's the most challenging part of our job is trying to figure out how to get out in front of that and to build breaks to stop it. Weather is our biggest factor when it comes to controlling fire, by far."

The busy season for brush fires in rural counties typically starts at the end of February, continuing through April or into May.