Wichita, Kan. – Severe thunderstorms could sweep across south-central and central Kansas through 1 a.m. Wednesday, with damaging winds and large hail posing the greatest threats from Wichita to Salina.
According to the National Weather Service Storm Prediction Center, a Severe Thunderstorm Watch remains in effect for 19 counties, including Sedgwick, Reno, McPherson, and Russell. The storms may produce wind gusts up to 70 mph and hail up to the size of golf balls. The watch was issued at 5:30 p.m. Tuesday and runs through early Wednesday.
Cities at heightened risk include Wichita, Hutchinson, Great Bend, and El Dorado. Residents in Barber, Harper, and Sumner counties could see storms intensify rapidly after sunset, increasing the potential for downed trees and power lines. Local emergency officials are urging Kansans to secure outdoor items and avoid travel if lightning or high winds occur.
Drivers along I-135 and U.S. Route 54 should remain alert for sudden wind shifts or debris on roadways. Charge phones and devices ahead of potential outages, and monitor NOAA weather radio or local alerts for updates.
More watches or warnings may be issued overnight as storms evolve across the region.
