Heat Watch: A Heat Advisory is in effect for parts of Nebraska, Iowa, Missouri and Kansas, with humidity and triple-digit temperatures expected to linger through the week and into the weekend, raising heat and fire danger concerns. School Sports Under Strain: Wichita-area schools are rescheduling practices and games, with some athletes told to practice at 5 a.m. to avoid dangerous heat, while some games shift later in the evening. Sunflower Season Threatened: At Grinter Sunflower Farm near Lawrence, extreme heat and dry conditions are already shortening the bloom window, with the peak now expected to be under two weeks. Burn Bans: Several Kansas counties have issued burn bans, including Kingman, Sumner, Comanche, Kiowa, Allen, and Bourbon, with end dates ranging from days to “until further notice.” Local Government: Lawrence city commissioners voted to increase property taxes for 2027 and raise stormwater rates over the next three years. Elections: Johnson County’s new election commissioner appointment drew questions about the process from county officials. Energy & Growth: Evergy asked Kansas regulators to approve new generation plans, including a natural gas plant, solar farms and battery storage, citing rising demand from data centers. Courts & Service Members: The DOJ announced a settlement with KDHE over eliminating a National Guard employee’s job tied to deployment protections.