Kansas — A gray, chilly morning greets Wichita as cold air lingers across south-central Kansas. Breath hangs in the air, and pavement feels stiff underfoot as MLK Day gets underway.
Temperatures hover in the mid-20s early, with light north winds adding a bite. Clouds thin through the morning, allowing gradual clearing by afternoon. Highs climb near 31 degrees, offering modest relief. Any very light snow that falls today remains spotty and non-impactful, according to the National Weather Service.
Conditions turn calm tonight. Skies clear, winds ease, and temperatures drop near 23. Refreezing becomes a concern on bridges and shaded roads, especially where moisture lingers from the weekend. Drivers should stay cautious during late-night travel.
Tuesday marks a sharp shift. Sunshine dominates, and southwest winds increase. Gusts reach over 20 mph at times, pushing highs close to 48 degrees. It feels almost springlike by January standards. Secure loose items outdoors, especially along open corridors like I-135.
Wednesday continues the mild stretch. Skies stay sunny with highs near 49. By evening, temperatures fall quickly under clear skies, setting the stage for colder nights ahead.
By Thursday, winter starts pushing back. Highs slip into the low 40s, and clouds increase late. Attention then turns to Friday. A colder air mass drops south, bringing a 30 percent chance of snow after midday. Highs fall near 29, and any snow could quickly stick as temperatures drop.
Friday night turns sharply colder. Lows dip into the single digits, raising freeze concerns for pets, pipes, and people without adequate heat. Looking ahead, longer-range outlooks show colder-than-normal air spreading across the Plains while wetter weather develops farther east.
Plan for rapid changes this week. Enjoy the brief warmth, but prepare now for winter’s return.
How dramatic did today’s temperature swing feel where you live?
Five-Day Outlook for Wichita, KS
Today: Gradual clearing, high near 31
Tuesday: Sunny and windy, high near 48
Wednesday: Sunny and mild, high near 49
Thursday: Partly sunny, cooler, high near 43
Friday: Chance of snow, colder, high near 29
