Kansas starts the day with low clouds, damp air, and a sharp edge to the cold. The pavement feels slick. Flags barely move at first light. That quiet won’t last.
According to the National Weather Service in Wichita, strong northwest winds build quickly today, prompting a Wind Advisory from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. Gusts may reach 45 to 50 mph, especially across central, south-central, and southeast Kansas. High-profile vehicles could struggle on open highways, including I-35 and U.S. 54.
A Fire Weather Watch is also in effect for parts of central and south-central Kansas. Very dry air combines with strong winds, creating extreme grassland fire danger by late morning. Any spark could spread fast. Residents should avoid outdoor burning and secure loose items now.
Temperatures climb into the low-to-mid 50s today, then fall sharply tonight. Lows drop near 28 degrees, raising concerns for flash freezing where moisture lingers. Bridges, ramps, and untreated roads may turn slick early Thursday.
By Friday, December 19, winds ease and shift southerly. Highs rebound into the mid-50s. For now, snow stays out of the picture locally. Still, meteorologists are watching a broader winter pattern developing across the Midwest. Models hint at colder air and snow chances north of Kansas heading into the Christmas travel period.
Action steps today:
Secure decorations and trash bins. Use caution driving trucks or vans. Delay any activities that could spark flames. Plan extra travel time during peak wind hours.
Five-Day Outlook for Wichita, KS
- Today: Sunny, very windy, high near 56
- Thursday: Breezy, cooler, high near 53
- Friday: Mostly sunny, high near 55
- Saturday: Mostly sunny, high near 55
- Sunday: Mostly sunny, cooler morning, high near 50
