A sharp, biting cold grips Kansas this morning as the state braces for its first true winter punch of the season. Across Wichita and much of south-central Kansas, winds cut through the morning air, driving wind chills into the single digits — a cold snap that sets the stage for Monday’s snow.
According to the National Weather Service in Wichita, a Winter Weather Advisory takes effect Monday for areas north of Highway 50, where light accumulating snow is likely. Forecasters say a 50% chance of snow will develop through Monday morning, potentially dropping up to an inch in the Wichita metro area and slightly higher amounts toward McPherson and Salina.
Roads may become slick by early commute hours as pavement temperatures drop below freezing. Drivers heading north toward I-135 or west along Highway 54 should allow extra travel time. Even minor accumulations could lead to icy conditions, especially where snow melts and refreezes during late afternoon.
Behind the snow, bitter cold continues into Tuesday with lows near 19°F and highs only in the lower 40s. Another weak system is expected by Thursday night, possibly adding light snow or flurries before temperatures briefly rebound next weekend.
Meteorologists caution that this marks the first impactful snow event of the season for much of Kansas. Residents should prepare for wind chills below zero across portions of central Kansas and bundle up for the first full taste of December weather.
Five-Day Outlook (Wichita, KS):
- Monday: 50% chance of snow, high 30°F, low 19°F.
- Tuesday: Sunny, high 42°F, low 28°F.
- Wednesday: Partly sunny, high 42°F, low 17°F.
- Thursday: Partly sunny, high 31°F, 20% snow chance.
- Friday: Mostly sunny, high 49°F.
