Wichita, Kan. – Bright sunshine is taking over southern Kansas, but don’t let the calm skies fool you. A few isolated thunderstorms could pop up this afternoon before a stronger push of summer heat settles over Wichita through early next week.
Warm, increasingly hot weather will dominate south-central Kansas over the next several days, with temperatures climbing from the lower 90s into the upper 90s by Tuesday. While today carries only a limited chance for isolated afternoon thunderstorms, the bigger story quickly becomes the building heat.
According to the National Weather Service in Wichita, today’s high will reach around 91 degrees with a 20% chance of isolated showers and thunderstorms after noon. Most neighborhoods will remain dry, but any storm that develops could bring brief downpours, lightning, and gusty winds before fading during the evening.
Drivers along Interstate 135, Kellogg Avenue (US-54/US-400), and the Kansas Turnpike should expect excellent travel conditions for most of the day. However, any isolated thunderstorm could briefly reduce visibility on wet pavement during the afternoon commute. Plan outdoor events early when temperatures are more comfortable and keep an eye on the sky if thunder develops.
The heat steadily intensifies through early next week. Highs climb to 93 degrees Sunday, 97 degrees Monday, and 99 degrees Tuesday under mostly sunny skies. Humidity will make conditions feel even warmer during the afternoon, increasing the risk of heat-related illnesses for anyone spending extended time outside. Stay hydrated, wear lightweight clothing, and take frequent breaks in the shade or air conditioning.
Long-range outlooks suggest above-normal temperatures could continue beyond midweek across much of Kansas, although a few isolated storm chances may return later in the week. Severe weather potential remains low through Tuesday, but any isolated thunderstorm can still produce dangerous cloud-to-ground lightning.
Five-Day Forecast for Wichita, Kansas
- Today: Sunny, then a 20% chance of isolated afternoon thunderstorms. High 91°F.
- Sunday: Sunny. High 93°F.
- Monday: Sunny and hot. High 97°F.
- Tuesday: Sunny and hot. High 99°F.
- Wednesday: Mostly sunny. High 93°F.
