Dodge City, Kansas — Isolated thunderstorms Friday afternoon could bring large hail and strong winds across parts of southwest Kansas.
According to the National Weather Service in Dodge City, conditions may support isolated severe thunderstorms developing during the afternoon hours Friday, with the greatest chance for stronger storms occurring between 3 p.m. and 7 p.m. Central Time.
Forecasters say the main hazards from any stronger storms will be large hail and damaging wind gusts. Hailstones could reach around 1.5 to 2 inches in diameter, which could cause damage to vehicles, roofs, and vegetation. Wind gusts may also reach up to 65 mph, capable of downing small tree limbs and producing localized power outages.
The highest potential for stronger storms appears to be across portions of Pratt, Barber, and Stafford counties, though other nearby areas of southwest Kansas could also see isolated thunderstorm development.
Drivers traveling along major regional roadways such as U.S. Highway 54 near Pratt, U.S. Highway 283, and U.S. Highway 50 near Dodge City could encounter brief downpours, gusty winds, and reduced visibility if storms develop along these corridors during the afternoon.
Meteorologists emphasize that storm coverage is expected to remain scattered, meaning some communities may see little or no severe weather. However, any storm that does form could briefly become strong and produce damaging conditions.
Residents are encouraged to stay weather aware Friday afternoon and monitor updated forecasts in case severe thunderstorm warnings are issued.
The potential for afternoon storms arrives as many students and commuters are traveling home for the weekend, making it important to remain alert to changing weather conditions across southwest Kansas.
