Weather
Kansas Weather Alert: 65 MPH Winds, Large Hail Tuesday 13-15
Wichita, KS – Strong to severe thunderstorms could threaten portions of central, south central and southeastern Kansas Tuesday, October 13, bringing the potential for damaging winds, large hail and lo
By Sophie Caldwell · 2026-10-12T11:06:38.429Z
Wichita, KS – Strong to severe thunderstorms could threaten portions of central, south central and southeastern Kansas Tuesday, October 13, bringing the potential for damaging winds, large hail and localized flooding. The storms are expected to arrive ahead of a dramatic temperature drop that could send overnight lows into the upper 30s by the end of the week.
According to the National Weather Service in Wichita, scattered thunderstorms are expected to develop late Tuesday afternoon into the evening as a strong cold front approaches from the north.
Forecasters warn that a handful of storms could become strong to severe, producing wind gusts up to 65 mph and hail as large as half dollar coins.
Severe Storm Risk Includes Wichita and Surrounding Communities
The Storm Prediction Center's outlook, shared by NWS Wichita early Monday, places portions of central and south central Kansas under a Level 2 of 5 severe thunderstorm risk.
Areas near Wichita, Hutchinson, Salina, Great Bend and Emporia are included in the broader area of concern, while portions of southeastern Kansas face a Level 1 risk.
Heavy rainfall could also lead to localized flooding, particularly where repeated thunderstorms move across the same locations.
Heavy Rain Continues Wednesday and Thursday
The unsettled pattern is expected to continue through midweek.
NWS Wichita forecasts numerous thunderstorms Wednesday and Thursday, with heavy rainfall likely during both days.
High temperatures ranging from 89 to 93 degrees Monday could fall into the upper 60s and 70s Wednesday and Thursday.
By Friday, October 16, afternoon highs are expected to reach only 58 to 62 degrees across the forecast area.
Much Colder Weekend Ahead
Saturday morning temperatures could drop into the 37 to 42 degree range before sunshine returns and highs recover into the lower 60s.
Residents should secure loose outdoor items, prepare for potentially hazardous driving conditions and move indoors when thunderstorms approach.
The National Weather Service advises residents to remain weather aware as the Tuesday evening severe storm threat approaches.