Kansas – Bright skies this morning won’t last. A fast-building winter system is lining up to turn rain-slick pavement into snow-covered streets across central and southern Kansas, with travel impacts escalating quickly.
According to the National Weather Service in Wichita, a Winter Storm Watch is in effect from Friday afternoon through late Saturday night for central, south-central, and southeast Kansas. Snow totals between 4 and 8 inches are possible, with locally higher amounts. A Cold Weather Advisory also begins Friday morning, as wind chills fall into the teens below zero range.
Wichita starts the day calm, with temperatures climbing into the mid-40s. Conditions change late Friday as colder air surges south. Rain may briefly mix with snow before turning fully snow Friday evening. Accumulating snow intensifies Friday night and continues through much of Saturday, creating hazardous driving conditions.
Roads could deteriorate quickly after sunset. Snow-covered lanes, reduced visibility, and gusty northeast winds may impact I-35, U.S. 54, and local arterials. Flash freezing becomes a concern as daytime melting refreezes once temperatures plunge.
Saturday remains snowy and cold. Highs hover near 6 degrees, with steady snowfall and blowing snow at times. Saturday night stays slick, with snow tapering late but lows dropping near 2 degrees. Wind chills remain dangerous for anyone outdoors.
Sunday brings some relief. Skies turn partly sunny, though highs struggle near 11 degrees. Refreezing continues each evening, especially on untreated surfaces.
Early next week trends quieter but cold. Monday climbs near 21 under sunshine, with gradual warming continuing into Tuesday. Another active pattern appears possible later next week, as precipitation chances rise across the central U.S.
Residents should plan now. Avoid unnecessary travel Friday night and Saturday, stock vehicles with winter supplies, and dress in layers. Traveling this weekend? Share what road conditions look like where you are.
Five-Day Outlook for Wichita, Kansas
Today: Sunny, high near 47.
Friday: Snow developing, high near 15.
Saturday: Snow, high near 6.
Sunday: Partly sunny, high near 11.
Monday: Sunny, high near 21.
