Wichita, Kansas – Thunderstorms packing winds up to 85 mph could sweep through parts of central Kansas after 5 p.m. Sunday, putting cities like Salina and Russell at risk for power outages, downed trees, and dangerous travel conditions.
According to the National Weather Service in Wichita, storms will develop along a southward-moving frontal boundary and push southeast into the overnight hours. A Level 2 severe weather risk has been issued for counties including Ellsworth, Lincoln, and Saline, where damaging wind gusts and heavy rain are most likely. Wichita, Hutchinson, and Chanute remain under a lower risk but could still see gusty winds and brief downpours.
Travelers along I-70 and U.S. 81 should stay alert for rapidly changing conditions, especially during the evening commute. Residents are urged to secure outdoor items, charge electronics in case of outages, and avoid non-essential travel during peak storm activity.
The storms will clear southeast Kansas by Monday morning, with temperatures expected to cool slightly into the upper 80s before rebounding into the mid-90s by Thursday.
5-Day Forecast for Wichita and Surrounding Areas:
- Monday: Morning storms southeast, highs 85–90°F
- Tuesday: Less humid, highs 85–90°F
- Wednesday: Partly cloudy, highs 87–92°F
- Thursday: Hot and sunny, highs 90–95°F
- Friday: Continued heat, isolated PM storms possible, highs near 95°F
