Wichita, Kansas – Breezy sunshine will give way to dangerous storms by Sunday as central and eastern Kansas brace for severe weather, including damaging winds, hail, and the potential for tornadoes.
According to the National Weather Service in Wichita, a Level 3 out of 5 risk for severe storms is in place for cities including Wichita, Emporia, and Topeka late Sunday afternoon through the evening. Wind gusts up to 70 mph and golf ball-sized hail are possible, with a few tornadoes also not ruled out. Southeast Kansas, including Chanute and Coffeyville, is under a Level 2 risk.
Highs in the low to mid-80s will dominate Friday and Saturday across most of the region, from Harper to Salina. Northwest winds could gust 30 to 35 mph Friday afternoon, contributing to elevated fire danger in rural areas.
Sunday’s storms may cause power outages and travel delays on I-35 and U.S. Route 400. Residents are urged to have multiple ways to receive warnings, charge devices, and avoid outdoor plans Sunday evening.
The severe weather threat will diminish overnight, but more updates are expected as timing and storm strength become clearer. Stay alert through Sunday.
