Wichita, Kansas – A blast of arctic air is expected to settle over Kansas late this week, bringing sharply colder temperatures and a chance of snow that could impact travel and daily activities across the state. Overnight lows are expected to drop to around 8 degrees, while daytime highs remain well below normal through early next week.
According to the National Weather Service, the coldest conditions are expected from Saturday through Tuesday as a polar air mass spreads across the Plains. Disturbances moving through the cold air may produce periods of light snow, especially during overnight and early morning hours when road conditions can deteriorate quickly.
Central and eastern Kansas, including Wichita, Hutchinson, Salina, Topeka, and the Kansas City metro, could see brief snow accumulations and icy patches. Roads such as Interstate 35, Interstate 70, Interstate 135, and U.S. 400 may become slick at times, particularly on bridges and untreated secondary roads. Gusty winds will also drive wind chills into the single digits and below zero during the coldest periods.
State emergency officials urge residents to limit non-essential travel during snow showers, dress in warm layers, and protect exposed pipes from freezing. Drivers are advised to slow down, allow extra travel time, and keep winter emergency kits in vehicles.
Cold conditions are expected to persist into early next week, and additional winter weather advisories could be issued as snow chances and temperatures are refined.
