Wichita, Kansas – Strong winds and hail could hit parts of south-central Kansas late Saturday as severe storms develop between 3 and 11 p.m.
According to the National Weather Service in Wichita, a frontal boundary pushing southeast will spark a round of storms capable of producing 60 to 70 mph gusts, quarter-sized hail, and brief heavy downpours. Areas in and around Wichita, Hutchinson, Salina, and Emporia are under a Level 1 risk, while Harper and Winfield fall under a Level 2, or slight risk, for severe weather.
Localized wind damage and hazardous travel are possible, especially in open areas and along U.S. Highways 54 and 400. Residents planning outdoor activities should remain weather aware and be ready to move indoors quickly. “When thunder roars, go indoors,” NWS officials emphasized in their Saturday morning update.
This is the first organized severe weather threat in several days for the region, and while widespread storms aren’t expected, any cells that do form could quickly intensify.
Storms are expected to weaken after 11 p.m., but additional updates will be issued if conditions worsen or new cells develop. Stay tuned to local alerts throughout the evening.
