Wichita, KS – Strong winds and dry conditions will elevate grassland fire danger across central and eastern Kansas Friday, including the Wichita metro. Drivers along I-135 and I-35 should expect reduced visibility and shifting winds, creating hazardous travel, especially near open fields.
According to the National Weather Service in Wichita, Friday will bring highs near 74°F with south winds gusting up to 33 mph. Officials are urging caution, particularly for residents conducting outdoor burns or using machinery that can spark fires. The Kansas Forest Service recommends delaying any open burning until conditions improve.
Friday night skies will remain mostly clear with temperatures falling near 60°F. Winds will persist, but fire danger will ease overnight. By Saturday afternoon, rain chances return. Scattered thunderstorms may develop late in the day, with isolated severe cells possible into Sunday morning. Rain chances peak around 40% Saturday night.
While Saturday will hit a high near 80°F, a strong cold front moves in Sunday. Expect highs to fall to the mid-50s with a 30% chance of rain, cooling further to 36°F overnight. Sensitive plants should be protected before sunset Sunday.
Looking ahead, Monday will be sunny and mild near 60°F, but more storm chances arrive Tuesday and Wednesday.
5-Day Outlook for Wichita:
- Friday: Sunny, breezy, high 74°F
- Saturday: 20% chance of PM storms, high 80°F
- Sunday: Cooler, 30% rain chance, high 56°F
- Monday: Sunny and calm, high 60°F
- Tuesday: Isolated storms, high 71°F
