Ozone Season Begins as Wichita Fire Stations Continue Mold Remediation
Wichita, KS – March 9, 2026 – Ozone season is underway as mold remediation continues at most Wichita fire stations, affecting environmental and emergency health systems.
Wichita’s 2026 ozone season is now underway as the city continues addressing mold found in most of its fire stations, two developments that intersect with respiratory health and emergency response across the community.
Ozone Season Runs Through October
The City of Wichita confirmed that ozone season began March 1 and will run through Oct. 31. During this period, hot temperatures, sunlight and regional burning can contribute to higher levels of ground-level ozone.
Ozone pollution can irritate airways and worsen asthma, chronic lung disease and certain heart conditions. City officials are again promoting efforts to reduce emissions, including a Lawn Care Rebate Program that offers incentives for qualifying electric lawn equipment purchases made on or after Jan. 1, 2026. The city has allocated limited funding for the rebates on a first-come basis.
Environmental health officials encourage residents to monitor local air-quality reports during the warmer months, particularly on days when skies appear hazy or when smoke from regional fires is present.
Mold Identified at Majority of Fire Stations
At the same time, the Wichita Fire Department continues remediation efforts after mold was identified in 20 of the city’s 22 fire stations. Station 15 was evacuated after conditions there were deemed unsafe, and crews have been rotating or temporarily relocating as cleanup progresses.
The firefighters’ union has said concerns about building conditions had been raised previously. City officials have outlined plans to address ventilation, moisture and maintenance issues as part of the remediation process.
While fire and EMS services remain operational, fire stations play a central role in medical response across Wichita. Facility disruptions can affect logistics for emergency crews, even when response coverage continues.
What Residents Should Know
Ozone season typically brings periodic air-quality advisories through early fall. Residents with respiratory conditions may want to stay aware of daily air-quality readings and city advisories during high-ozone days.
Emergency services remain active during fire station remediation. In an emergency, residents should continue to call 911 as usual.
If you have urgent symptoms, seek medical care. For general questions, talk with a licensed clinician.
