Kansas wakes up to a sharp edge in the air, the kind that hints at trouble ahead. Pavement stays dry for now, but gray skies later this week will signal a fast shift toward winter conditions that could snarl travel across south-central Kansas by Friday.
According to the National Weather Service in Wichita, a Winter Storm Watch is in effect from Friday afternoon through late Saturday night for much of central and southeast Kansas, including Sedgwick, Butler, Harvey, Cowley, Sumner, and Reno counties. Snow is expected to develop Friday afternoon and persist into Saturday night, with 3 to 6 inches possible. Higher totals are more likely closer to the Kansas–Oklahoma border.
In Wichita, light snow chances increase Friday afternoon as temperatures struggle near 15 degrees. Snow becomes more widespread Friday evening, with colder air deepening overnight. Roads could turn slick quickly, especially as daytime melting refreezes after sunset. Saturday stays bitter, with highs near 8 degrees, steady snow, and reduced visibility at times. Gusty north winds will add bite and worsen travel conditions on I-135, Kellogg Avenue, and other major routes.
Drivers should plan extra time, keep emergency kits in vehicles, and avoid unnecessary travel during heavier snow bands. Flash freezing remains a concern both Friday night and again Saturday evening as temperatures drop toward zero.
Looking ahead, the broader 6–10 day outlook favors continued cold across the central U.S., with additional chances for precipitation returning next week.
Five-Day Outlook for Wichita, Kansas
Thursday: Mostly sunny, high near 44.
Friday: Cloudy, snow developing, high near 15.
Saturday: Snow likely, very cold, high near 8.
Sunday: Mostly sunny, high near 14.
Monday: Sunny and cold, high near 22.
