WICHITA, Kan. – The sun rises over a calm south-central Kansas sky this Wednesday morning, painting the prairie in gold. It’s a quiet, crisp start — but the stillness won’t last. A developing system will shift Wichita’s mild stretch into a wetter, stormier pattern by late Thursday night, followed by a cooler, damp weekend.
According to the National Weather Service in Wichita, today stays sunny and pleasant, with highs near 76 degrees and light winds. Thursday begins much the same, though increasing clouds signal the approaching change. By late Thursday night, scattered showers and a few thunderstorms will develop across Sedgwick County and along the I-35 corridor, with rain intensifying into Friday.
Friday looks soggy, with highs near 60 and a 90 percent chance of rain through much of the day. Thunder is possible early, though widespread severe weather isn’t expected at this time. Gusts may reach 20 mph during heavier showers, especially east toward El Dorado and Augusta.
The system lingers into Saturday morning before tapering to spotty drizzle. Temperatures will remain in the low 60s through the weekend, marking a steady cooldown from this week’s mid-70s warmth.
Residents planning outdoor events or Friday travel should keep rain gear handy and watch for reduced visibility during morning and midday commutes. Gardeners and homeowners can take advantage of today’s dry weather to finish fall cleanup or secure yard items before the rain arrives.
To be fair, it’s not winter’s first strike — but it’s the first clear reminder that Kansas is moving deeper into fall’s rhythm: sun, storms, and the slow, steady drift toward colder days.
Five-Day Forecast for Wichita, KS:
Wed: 76/43 – Sunny; calm winds.
Thu: 70/55 – Mostly sunny early; clouds increase.
Fri: 60/54 – Rain likely; breezy and cooler.
Sat: 59/52 – Mostly cloudy; showers early.
Sun: 63/55 – Mostly cloudy; cool and calm.
