Wichita, KS – Residents of Wichita and the surrounding Kansas area should prepare for a shift in weather conditions as a cold front moves in. Storms are expected to develop Thursday evening and persist into Friday morning, bringing the possibility of severe weather. The National Weather Service (NWS) in Wichita has issued an advisory, noting that gusty winds reaching up to 50 mph and heavy downpours are likely.
According to the NWS, areas such as Russell, Salina, Emporia, and Hutchinson have a high chance of storms, with percentages ranging from 80% to 96%. The storms will primarily impact these areas overnight Thursday into early Friday.
In addition to the storm threat, the region will continue experiencing above-normal temperatures. Highs on Thursday are expected to soar into the mid-90s, with places like Harper and Winfield forecasted to reach 97°F. The heat, combined with the incoming storms, could create hazardous conditions for residents.
Authorities urge residents to stay informed and take necessary precautions, especially during peak storm hours Thursday night. The combination of extreme heat and severe storms makes this an important time for community vigilance and preparedness.