Dodge City, Kansas – The first widespread freeze of the season is on the way for southwest Kansas, with temperatures expected to plummet into the upper 20s late Tuesday night through early Wednesday. The National Weather Service in Dodge City has issued a Freeze Watch for Ford, Edwards, Kiowa, Clark, Pawnee, Stafford, Meade, and Seward counties, effective from late Tuesday evening through Wednesday morning.
According to the National Weather Service, subfreezing air will likely settle over Dodge City, Liberal, Greensburg, Meade, and Larned, with clear skies and light winds allowing rapid overnight cooling. The coldest readings—around 28 degrees—are anticipated just before sunrise Wednesday.
The freeze could end the growing season across the region, killing unprotected plants and stressing irrigation and outdoor plumbing systems. Residents are urged to cover tender vegetation, drain sprinklers, and insulate exposed pipes. Pet owners should ensure animals have warm, dry shelter overnight.
According to Kansas DOT, drivers may encounter light frost on bridges and rural roads early Wednesday, especially along U.S. 50, U.S. 54, and U.S. 283. Visibility will remain good, but commuters should allow extra time for morning travel.
Temperatures will rebound modestly Thursday under sunny skies, though another reinforcing cold front is expected to slide through by the weekend, keeping southwest Kansas locked in a late-fall chill.
