Wichita, Kansas – Strong to severe storms could quickly intensify by late afternoon Friday, bringing damaging winds and hail across eastern Kansas during the evening commute.
According to the National Weather Service in Wichita, storms are expected to develop late afternoon and continue through the evening, with the highest coverage and intensity focused along and east of Interstate 35, including Wichita, Emporia, and Coffeyville. The system will push northeast, impacting a broad portion of the state.
Wind gusts between 60 and 70 mph are the primary concern, capable of downing tree limbs and causing scattered power outages. Hail up to 1 inch in diameter is also possible, along with pockets of heavy rainfall that could lead to localized flooding on low-lying roads.
In Wichita and surrounding communities like Hutchinson and Winfield, conditions may deteriorate rapidly after sunset, with visibility dropping during heavy downpours and strong wind bursts impacting travel.
Residents should secure outdoor items and remain weather aware through the evening hours. Have multiple ways to receive warnings, especially if storms intensify quickly.
The severe threat is expected to diminish later Friday night, but additional updates or advisories may be issued as storms develop.
