Wichita, Kansas – A prolonged stretch of dangerous summer heat is set to grip central, south-central and southeast Kansas beginning Saturday, with afternoon temperatures climbing into the triple digits and heat index values reaching as high as 105 degrees through the middle of next week.
According to the National Weather Service in Wichita, scattered showers and thunderstorms will affect mainly the eastern half of Kansas Friday morning before gradually ending. Cooler temperatures are expected across eastern communities, while southwest Kansas heats up quickly with highs approaching 100 degrees in locations such as Liberal. Wichita is expected to reach around 91 degrees, with temperatures climbing into the mid to upper 90s across much of central Kansas.
The more significant concern begins Saturday as a hot and dry weather pattern settles over the region. High temperatures are forecast to reach 96 to 103 degrees Saturday, 98 to 105 degrees Sunday, 100 to 108 degrees Monday, 98 to 105 degrees Tuesday, and 97 to 102 degrees Wednesday. The prolonged heat will increase the risk of heat-related illnesses, especially for those working or spending extended time outdoors.
Communities including Wichita, Hutchinson, Salina, Russell, Great Bend, Winfield, Arkansas City and surrounding areas should limit strenuous outdoor activity during the hottest part of the afternoon, drink plenty of water and check on older adults, young children and anyone without reliable air conditioning. Never leave children or pets inside parked vehicles, where temperatures can become life-threatening within minutes.
The National Weather Service says dangerous afternoon heat indices are likely each day through Wednesday. Additional Heat Advisories or Extreme Heat Warnings may be issued as confidence increases in the duration and intensity of the heat.
Five-Day Forecast for Wichita, Kansas
- Saturday: Sunny and hot. High 96–103°F.
- Sunday: Sunny with dangerous heat. High 98–105°F.
- Monday: Mostly sunny and extremely hot. High 100–108°F.
- Tuesday: Hot and dry. High 98–105°F.
- Wednesday: Mostly sunny and very hot. High 97–102°F.
