Dodge City, KS – Christmas Day in western Kansas is shaping up to feel more like late spring than winter, with record-breaking warmth expected across the region Thursday.
According to the National Weather Service in Dodge City, forecasters have high confidence that Christmas 2025 will be the warmest on record for much of southwest Kansas. Afternoon temperatures are expected to climb into the low to mid-70s, roughly 30 to 35 degrees above normal for late December.
Weather officials say some locations south and east of Dodge City could briefly reach the lower 80s, an extremely rare occurrence for Christmas Day. While not every community will hit a record high, many areas are expected to come close.
The warmest temperatures are forecast during the mid-to-late afternoon, making outdoor Christmas activities unusually comfortable. The National Weather Service noted the conditions may be ideal for afternoon barbecues, picnics, and outdoor gatherings, though residents are reminded to remain cautious of dry conditions.
Cities across Ford County, surrounding counties in southwest Kansas, and areas closer to central Kansas are all expected to experience well-above-average warmth. The unusual heat is being driven by a strong weather pattern allowing warm southern air to surge northward across the Plains.
Despite the warmth, forecasters caution that winter is far from over, and more typical cold conditions could return later this week or into early January.
Residents are encouraged to stay updated with local forecasts, especially if traveling for the holiday or planning outdoor events.
This article was produced by a journalist and may include AI-assisted input. All content is reviewed for accuracy and fairness.
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