Wichita, Kansas – Drivers across central Kansas have less than 48 hours before a sharp cold front slashes temperatures by more than 30 degrees and threatens slick travel on major highways by early Sunday. Warm, springlike air will hold through Saturday afternoon, but conditions will change quickly late Saturday night as colder air surges south.
According to the National Weather Service in Wichita, highs Friday and Saturday will climb into the upper 60s and 70s statewide, including Wichita, Hutchinson, Salina and Emporia. A strong cold front is expected to move through Saturday night, dropping temperatures into the upper 20s and 30s by daybreak Sunday. Forecasters say central and northeast Kansas face the highest chance for light wintry precipitation Sunday, mainly during the morning hours.
The rapid temperature drop will impact Interstate 135 from Salina through Wichita, as well as stretches of Interstate 70 near Salina and K-96 west of Hutchinson. Bridges and overpasses could cool to freezing first, creating isolated slick spots if light snow or a rain-snow mix develops. North winds may gust above 20 mph Sunday, reducing visibility in any falling snow and adding wind chill to the morning commute.
Residents should secure outdoor items Saturday evening and prepare vehicles for colder travel. Check tire pressure, allow extra stopping distance and monitor Kansas Department of Transportation updates before heading out Sunday morning.
Warmer conditions are expected to gradually return early next week, but Sunday’s colder air will hold highs in the 40s and lower 50s. Additional advisories could be issued if wintry precipitation coverage increases overnight Saturday.
