Wichita, Kansas – Parts of central and eastern Kansas could face dangerous thunderstorms Monday afternoon as a strong cold front dives south, bringing the threat of damaging winds and hail through 8 p.m.
According to the National Weather Service in Wichita, scattered storms may rapidly intensify, with wind gusts reaching up to 70 mph and golf ball-sized hail possible across areas from Salina to Emporia and down through Wichita. The greatest risk stretches from Topeka south to Coffeyville, where localized flooding may also occur due to heavy rainfall.
Cities including Hutchinson, Eureka, and Chanute sit within a Level 2 risk zone, where conditions favor more widespread severe activity. Meanwhile, Emporia and Topeka remain in a Level 1 area, still vulnerable to isolated but intense cells. Storms may develop quickly between 1 p.m. and 8 p.m., so residents are urged to stay weather-aware and delay outdoor plans.
Wind damage could down trees and power lines, especially along I-35 and U.S. 400 corridors. Emergency managers advise securing loose items and ensuring mobile alerts are activated on all devices.
Storm chances may decrease overnight, but more unsettled weather is possible later this week. Warnings remain in effect through this evening.
