Wichita, Kan. – Severe thunderstorms are expected to erupt across central and south-central Kansas late Wednesday afternoon, bringing the risk of damaging winds and large hail to cities including Wichita, Hutchinson, and Salina. The most intense storms could strike between 4 and 10 p.m., raising safety concerns for anyone planning outdoor activities.
According to the National Weather Service in Wichita, storms will be capable of producing hail up to golf ball size and wind gusts near 60 mph. Brief but heavy rainfall could also reduce visibility on major highways such as I-135 and U.S. 50, making evening travel hazardous.
Residents in Hutchinson, Wichita, Emporia, and surrounding areas sit in the highest risk zone. Emergency officials urge people to secure outdoor items, move vehicles to covered parking, and be prepared to shelter quickly if warnings are issued.
A cold front will move in Thursday, dropping highs into the upper 70s, with additional showers possible Friday before skies clear by the weekend. Warnings and advisories may be extended if storms linger overnight.
Five Day Forecast for Wichita, Kansas
- Wednesday: Severe storms late; highs 83–89, lows 55–60
- Thursday: Sunny and cooler; highs 77–83, lows 57–62
- Friday: Morning and afternoon storms; highs 65–72, lows 50–55
- Saturday: Partly sunny, cooler; highs 70–75, lows near 55
- Sunday: Mostly sunny; highs mid-70s, lows upper 50s
