Wichita, Kansas – Sweltering summer heat grips Kansas on Tuesday with Wichita climbing to a scorching 94°F — and that’s before the heat index. Midweek thunderstorm chances add a weather twist, and weekend plans may need adjusting as storms linger into Friday.
According to the National Weather Service in Wichita, Tuesday will be sunny and breezy, with south winds reaching 21 mph by afternoon. Heat index values will likely exceed 95°F in parts of Sedgwick County. South-central Kansas residents are urged to hydrate frequently, avoid strenuous outdoor activity during peak heat, and monitor pets and elderly neighbors.
Wednesday brings even hotter conditions with highs hitting 96°F. Gusts may reach 24 mph ahead of a storm system that arrives late Wednesday night. The first round of thunderstorms could bring lightning and brief downpours. A 30–40% chance of storms continues Thursday and Thursday night, possibly affecting outdoor events and evening commutes.
Areas along I-35, including Park City and Derby, may experience slick roads and reduced visibility after 1 p.m. Thursday. The National Weather Service advises drivers to slow down and turn on headlights during heavy rainfall.
By Friday, the heat eases slightly with highs in the low 90s, but storm chances persist through the evening. The weekend dries out and heats back up: 95°F Saturday, 96°F on Sunday with full sunshine and light winds.
📅 Five-Day Forecast for Wichita (Starting Tuesday, July 15):
- Tuesday: Sunny, high near 94°F. Breezy with south wind gusts to 21 mph.
- Wednesday: Sunny, high near 96°F. Gusts up to 24 mph.
- Thursday: 40% chance of storms. High near 90°F.
- Friday: 20% chance of storms. Partly sunny, high of 93°F.
- Saturday: Partly cloudy, high near 95°F.
- Sunday: Sunny and hot, high of 96°F.
