Residents of drought-stricken Kansas are being urged to continue observing local burn bans as the risk of wildfires remains high.

A multi-agency group called the Kansas Wildland Fire Prevention and Education Team said Wednesday that recent, scattered rain did little to lower the threat.

The Education Team says Kansans should be especially careful using equipment that may create sparks.

Meanwhile, the Kansas Forest Service reports that more than 41,000 acres and 26 structures have burned statewide since May. The agency says the past week alone saw seven fires that scorched more than 8,000 acres.

Officials say this summer’s fires are burning especially hot, making them harder to suppress.

Rain chances are in the forecast over the Labor Day weekend, but the precipitation isn’t expected to eliminate the drought conditions.