Wichita, Kansas – Damaging winds up to 60 mph and bursts of heavy rain are expected to hit central Kansas, including Wichita, Hutchinson, and Russell, after 7 p.m. Friday. Residents should be ready for rapidly changing weather and possible power outages as storms move across the area.
According to the National Weather Service in Wichita, the strongest storms will develop in central and north-central Kansas, mainly impacting counties along the I-135 corridor from Salina to Wichita and as far west as Russell. The greatest risks include brief periods of intense wind and heavy rainfall that could lead to downed branches and minor street flooding.
Travel could be hazardous along US-81, US-54, and I-135, especially during evening hours. Emergency management officials advise having multiple ways to receive weather warnings and staying off the roads during strong winds. Keep cell phones charged and secure outdoor items that could blow away.
The threat is expected to last through the late-night hours, with storm chances tapering off by early Saturday. Further alerts may be issued if conditions worsen.
