Wichita, Kansas – Strong to severe thunderstorms are expected to erupt across central and south-central Kansas after 5 p.m. Friday, threatening damaging wind gusts up to 70 mph along I-35 and US-54 during the evening commute. Residents have a limited window Friday afternoon to secure property and review safety plans before storms intensify.
According to the National Weather Service in Wichita, scattered storms may begin developing late Thursday night, with a greater risk for organized severe thunderstorms late Friday afternoon into Friday night. Primary hazards include large hail, damaging straight-line winds, locally heavy rainfall, and a couple of tornadoes. Storms may initially form as discrete cells before clustering and accelerating east through the evening hours.
Wichita, Hutchinson, and Salina sit in an area with elevated severe potential Friday evening. Quarter- to ping-pong-ball-size hail could dent vehicles and damage roofs, especially near US-50, K-61, and I-135. Farther east toward Emporia, storms may strengthen as they track along the I-35 corridor, increasing the tornado risk after sunset. Heavy rainfall may also lead to brief street flooding in low-lying or poor-drainage areas.
Drivers should avoid unnecessary travel during warnings and never attempt to outrun a tornado in a vehicle. Secure outdoor furniture, park vehicles in garages if possible, and ensure you have multiple ways to receive warnings, including weather alerts enabled on mobile devices.
Storms are expected to shift east later Friday night, but additional watches or warnings could be issued as conditions evolve across central Kansas.
