Wichita, Kan. – Strong thunderstorms are moving across Kansas and western Missouri this evening, prompting a Severe Thunderstorm Watch through 11 p.m. Wednesday. The storms carry the risk of large hail, wind gusts up to 70 mph, and dangerous lightning across dozens of counties.
According to the National Weather Service Storm Prediction Center, the watch includes much of southern and eastern Kansas, from Sedgwick and Butler counties east into Miami and Linn counties, as well as parts of western Missouri including Cass, Bates, Barton, and Vernon counties. The greatest risk is expected along the I-35 and I-49 corridors, where storms could strengthen quickly into the night.
Emergency managers warn that scattered power outages are possible if winds down trees or power lines. Drivers on U.S. 54 and U.S. 400 should be alert for reduced visibility and ponding on roads during downpours. Outdoor activities should be postponed until storms pass, and residents are urged to have multiple ways to receive warnings.
The severe threat should ease after 11 p.m., but forecasters say additional rounds of showers and storms remain possible into Thursday.
