Wichita, KS – Strong southwest winds and near-record temperatures today are creating hazardous conditions for much of central Kansas. Residents are urged to take precautions as fire danger reaches critical levels, especially along major roadways like I-35. With temperatures soaring near 90°F and winds gusting up to 40 mph, the National Weather Service warns of heightened risks for grassland fires.
According to the National Weather Service in Wichita, outdoor burning is highly discouraged, and citizens should avoid any activities that might generate sparks, such as welding or discarding lit materials. The peak danger time is expected between 1 p.m. and 6 p.m. for most of the area. Along with the fire risk, scattered thunderstorms are forecast for tonight, with the strongest storms potentially producing hail the size of dimes. The highest chance of storms is from 8 p.m. to 3 a.m., primarily across eastern Kansas into the Flint Hills.
Tomorrow, cooler temperatures will provide some relief, with highs expected to range between 67°F and 74°F. Winds will shift to the north, calming some of the severe conditions. However, fire dangers will continue into Monday when another warming trend brings highs back to the mid-80s.
Five-Day Wichita Forecast:
• Thursday: Sunny and breezy, high of 89°F. Slight chance of thunderstorms in the evening.
• Friday: Sunny with a high of 71°F. Winds from the north at 15-28 mph.
• Saturday: Partly cloudy, high of 68°F. Overnight low of 47°F.
• Sunday: Sunny with a high of 77°F. Calm weather expected.
• Monday: Mostly sunny, high of 85°F. Fire danger remains high.
