Kansas – Warm air brushes past early this morning, almost springlike, as streetlights glow over dry roads in Wichita. That comfort fades fast. A powerful shift is lining up, bringing strong winds, plunging temperatures, and winter hazards just as weekend and end-of-year travel accelerates.
According to the National Weather Service in Wichita, highs surge into the lower 70s today and remain unusually mild through Saturday. Clouds increase late, and winds strengthen Sunday. Gusts could top 40 mph, especially during the afternoon, making driving difficult for high-profile vehicles on open roads.
By Sunday evening, colder air rushes in behind the wind. Temperatures tumble quickly, falling into the 20s overnight. The sharp warm-to-cold transition raises concerns for patchy black ice early Monday, especially where moisture lingers from fog or brief drizzle. Bridges and overpasses along I-35, U.S. 54, and Kellogg Avenue could turn slick before sunrise.
Monday brings a true winter feel. Highs struggle near freezing, and morning wind chills dip into the teens. Commuters should allow extra time and dress for biting cold. While snow is not expected locally, the sudden freeze can still cause travel headaches.
Looking ahead, sunshine returns Tuesday with a gradual rebound into the upper 40s and low 50s midweek. Attention then turns to New Year’s Eve on Wednesday. Conditions look quiet for now, but lingering cold mornings keep winter safety front of mind as 2026 begins.
If you’re traveling Sunday or early Monday, plan ahead, secure loose items, and stay alert for icy spots. Feeling the temperature swing yet? Tell us how warm it felt today compared to what you expect by Monday morning.
Five Day Outlook for Wichita, Kansas
Saturday: Partly sunny, high near 71
Sunday: Windy and cooler, high near 54
Monday: Sunny and cold, high near 32
Tuesday: Sunny, high near 48
Wednesday: Sunny, high near 50
