Wichita Daily Local Headlines: Fire Station Mold, Voting Sites Open, Storm Safety Classes
Wichita, KS – February 26, 2026 – Mold concerns prompt action at fire stations, early voting opens for the sales-tax election, and storm classes start.
Top story: Fire station mold forces an evacuation
Wichita firefighters were moved out of one station after mold was found, part of a broader review that identified mold in most city fire stations. City leaders and union representatives have framed it as a health and safety issue that needs quick fixes now, plus a longer-term plan for building maintenance and remediation.
For residents, the big takeaway is continuity: emergency response continues while crews are relocated and cleanup work is planned. Expect more updates as inspections and repairs move station to station.
Election watch: Early voting expands for the March 3 sales tax special election
Early in-person voting at satellite locations opens today for registered City of Wichita voters, adding neighborhood options beyond the Election Office downtown. The special election centers on a proposed 1% city sales tax, with voting day set for Tuesday, March 3.
- Satellite hours: Thu-Fri 10 a.m. to 6 p.m.; Sat 9 a.m. to 1 p.m.
- Early voting at the Election Office continues on weekdays, with the in-person window ending Monday at noon.
Weather readiness: Free severe weather safety classes roll through the area
With spring approaching, Sedgwick County Emergency Management is running free, two-hour severe weather safety classes through March. Organizers say the sessions are designed for everyone, from first-timers to experienced spotters, and typically start at 6:30 p.m. unless otherwise noted. Several dates are scheduled in communities around Wichita, including Maize, Derby, Haysville, and Bel Aire.
Quick look: A warm, quiet Thursday
Wichita is on track for a sunny day with afternoon temperatures in the 60s, followed by a warmer, breezier Friday. A cooler, windier shift is expected as March begins.
Sources
- https://www.kwch.com/video/2026/02/24/mold-forces-evacuation-wichita-fire-department/
- https://www.kwch.com/2026/02/24/tuesday-marks-last-day-request-advance-ballot-1-sales-tax-special-election-early-voting-satellite-locations-starts-thursday/
- https://www.sedgwickcounty.org/communications/news-releases/satellite-locations-open-for-early-in-person-voting-feb-26/
- https://www.yahoo.com/news/articles/severe-weather-training-classes-offered-160305914.html
- https://www.kwch.com/2026/02/26/another-nice-day-across-kansas-today/
