DODGE CITY, Kan. – A strong burst of fall cold will grip southwest Kansas this weekend, driving morning lows into the 20s and ending the region’s growing season. The National Weather Service in Dodge City says temperatures will tumble late Friday night, with widespread frost and possible hard freezes early Saturday and Sunday mornings.
According to meteorologists, clear skies and light winds behind a passing cold front will allow rapid cooling both nights. Lows are expected to range from the low 20s in Hays and Dighton to near 30 degrees around Pratt and Liberal. Even Dodge City is forecast to dip into the upper 20s. Afternoon highs will struggle to climb beyond the upper 40s and low 50s through the weekend, marking one of the coldest stretches so far this fall.
Residents are urged to protect exposed pipes, bring pets indoors, and cover or bring in sensitive plants before temperatures drop late Friday. Farmers and ranchers should prepare for freezing impacts on water troughs and equipment.
The National Weather Service expects the chill to moderate early next week as winds shift southerly, bringing temperatures back into the 60s by Monday. Until then, crisp mornings and clear skies will dominate western Kansas, offering a distinctly wintry preview for early November.
