Wichita, KS – Much of Kansas will face hazardous winds Saturday as multiple National Weather Service offices issue Wind Advisories covering a wide stretch of the state, including the Wichita metro, Salina, Hutchinson, Great Bend, Manhattan, and Emporia.
According to the National Weather Service in Wichita, northwest winds will strengthen by 9 a.m. Saturday, with sustained speeds between 20 and 30 mph and gusts up to 45 mph across counties including Saline, McPherson, Marion, Chase, Harvey, Sedgwick, and Sumner. Loose objects may blow around, and tree limbs could snap under stronger gusts.
Farther west, the Wichita office continues a similar advisory for Russell, Lincoln, Barton, Ellsworth, Rice, Reno, Kingman, and Harper counties, where gusts may also reach 45 mph.
The strongest winds may develop farther north and east. The National Weather Service in Topeka warns that gusts could peak near 50 mph in Cloud, Clay, Riley, Ottawa, Dickinson, Geary, Morris, Lyon, Republic, and Washington counties. Even small branches may break, and isolated power outages are possible, especially in open and rural areas.
Motorists—particularly those driving high-profile vehicles—may experience difficult handling on east–west roads, including I-70, U.S. 56, U.S. 81, and Kansas Highway 15. Drivers are encouraged to keep both hands on the wheel, reduce speed, and secure cargo before traveling.
Wind speeds are expected to gradually diminish after 6 p.m., though breezy conditions may continue into the evening.
With the potential for scattered outages, residents should secure outdoor decorations, trash bins, and lightweight equipment ahead of the advisory.
