DODGE CITY, Kan. – Strong thunderstorms are set to roll across western Kansas Friday night, bringing heavy rain, lightning, and the potential for damaging winds and hail. Travel west of U.S. Highway 283 could be especially hazardous, with storms expected to linger into early Saturday.
According to the National Weather Service in Dodge City, numerous showers and thunderstorms will develop late Friday, with storm coverage reaching as high as 80 percent in counties near Liberal and Garden City. Localized heavy rainfall could lead to flooding in low-lying areas, while wind gusts up to 60 mph and quarter-size hail are possible in the strongest cells.
Drivers should prepare for sudden downpours, reduced visibility, and dangerous lightning. Outdoor activities Friday night may be disrupted, and residents are advised to secure loose items that could be blown by strong winds. While high-end severe weather is not expected, the risk of damaging gusts and hail remains a concern.
The unsettled pattern extends into the weekend, with additional showers possible before conditions begin to ease by early next week.
