Weather
Central Kansas Weather Alert: Storms Before Weekend Cold Snap Oct 13-16
Wichita, KS – Residents across central, south central and southeast Kansas are preparing for a dramatic weather shift this week, with temperatures approaching 90 degrees before multiple rounds of thun
By Lena Wood · 2026-10-11T12:41:35.566Z
Wichita, KS – Residents across central, south central and southeast Kansas are preparing for a dramatic weather shift this week, with temperatures approaching 90 degrees before multiple rounds of thunderstorms and a sharp cooldown send overnight readings into the upper 30s.
According to the National Weather Service in Wichita, unusually warm temperatures will continue through Tuesday, October 13, before a changing weather pattern brings widespread rain chances and significantly cooler air later in the week.
Sunday's forecast includes highs near 88 degrees in Wichita, 90 in Great Bend and Pratt, and 89 in Salina, Hutchinson and Emporia. Breezy southerly winds could produce gusts of 30 to 36 mph across parts of the region.
Monday could bring even warmer conditions, with afternoon highs ranging from 89 to 93 degrees.
The weather pattern begins changing Tuesday afternoon as scattered thunderstorms develop. Rain and storm chances are expected to increase Wednesday and Thursday, with numerous showers and thunderstorms possible across the region.
Temperatures will begin falling Wednesday, with highs ranging from 70 to 80 degrees before dropping into the upper 60s and lower 70s Thursday.
By Friday, October 16, highs are forecast to reach only 61 to 66 degrees, a substantial drop from the early week warmth.
The coldest conditions could arrive Friday night into Saturday morning, when overnight lows are projected to fall between 39 and 45 degrees.
Saturday afternoon temperatures are expected to remain cool, with highs around 60 to 65 degrees.
The combination of changing temperatures, rain and thunderstorms could affect travel and outdoor activities throughout the week.
Residents should monitor updated forecasts for storm timing and prepare for a significant temperature change heading into the weekend.