Wichita, Kansas – Storms capable of 60 mph winds and quarter-size hail could disrupt travel along Interstate 135 this afternoon and evening, just ahead of a dangerous stretch of triple-digit heat expected to grip southern Kansas later this week.
According to the National Weather Service in Wichita, strong to marginally severe thunderstorms are likely today west of I-135, particularly through the early nighttime hours. These storms may bring localized flooding and damaging gusts, though spotter activation is not expected at this time.
Once the storms pass, a relentless heat pattern builds in. High temperatures are forecast to climb above 100 degrees across southern Kansas starting Wednesday, with no relief in sight through Saturday. Cities including Wichita, Hutchinson, and Winfield should prepare for extreme heat that could push power demand and increase health risks, especially for outdoor workers and vulnerable groups.
Residents are advised to limit time outside during peak heat hours, hydrate frequently, and check on neighbors without access to cooling. While Monday and Tuesday bring drier, sunnier skies, the heat returns fast—and stays.
Another update is expected Monday morning as confidence grows in the late-week heat wave.
Five Day Forecast for Wichita, Kansas:
- Monday: Sunny, high near 82°F.
- Tuesday: Mostly sunny, high near 88°F.
- Wednesday: Sunny and hot, high near 90°F.
- Thursday: Sunny, high near 94°F.
- Friday: Sunny, high near 95°F.
