Wichita, Kansas – After several days of mild, above-average temperatures, much colder Arctic air is expected to move into the Wichita area by Friday, bringing the potential for accumulating snow and hazardous travel conditions into Saturday.
According to the National Weather Service in Wichita, temperatures will remain relatively mild through midweek before a sharp cold front pushes south late Thursday. By Friday, Arctic air is forecast to overspread central, south-central, and southeast Kansas, with snow possible from Friday into Saturday.
Forecast highs in Wichita are expected to fall dramatically, dropping into the 16–25 degree range Friday, followed by Saturday highs near 12–16 degrees. Overnight low temperatures are forecast to dip into the single digits, with lows near 1 to 5 degrees Saturday morning, according to NWS guidance.
If snow develops as expected, roadway conditions could deteriorate quickly, especially during early morning and overnight hours. Drivers along Interstate 35, U.S. Highway 54, Kellogg Avenue, and other primary routes should be prepared for slick conditions as temperatures fall and snow accumulates.
The National Weather Service emphasized that while mild weather dominates early in the week, residents should begin preparing now for the return of winter conditions. Travel plans late Friday or Saturday may be impacted if snow coincides with the coldest temperatures.
The cold air mass is expected to linger into the weekend, with Sunday highs only reaching the upper 20s to low 30s, before a gradual moderation begins early next week.
Residents are encouraged to monitor forecast updates, plan ahead for cold-weather travel, and take precautions to protect people, pets, pipes, and plants as temperatures drop well below freezing. Commuters, students, and weekend travelers should allow extra time and remain alert for changing road conditions.
