Wichita, Kansas – Slick bridges and overpasses could develop as early as 7 a.m. Sunday along I-135 and K-96 as a light wintry mix spreads across central Kansas, creating hazardous travel into early Monday morning.
According to the National Weather Service in Wichita, a mix of light freezing rain, sleet and snow is possible from Sunday morning through early Monday. While accumulations are expected to remain light, even a thin glaze — around one-tenth of an inch or less — can create icy patches, especially on elevated roadways.
Across the state, the greatest risk for light icing stretches from near Great Bend and Hutchinson northeast toward Salina and into areas approaching Topeka along the I-70 corridor. In Wichita, untreated bridges along I-235 and flyovers connecting to US-54 could become slick before sunrise Sunday if surface temperatures dip below freezing.
The Kansas Department of Transportation urges drivers to slow down and increase following distance. Overpasses freeze first because cold air circulates above and below the roadway. Motorists should avoid sudden braking, allow extra commute time and check road conditions before heading out Sunday morning or early Monday.
Conditions may fluctuate as temperatures hover near freezing. Even where precipitation appears light, black ice can form in shaded areas and on lesser-traveled roads. Travelers should remain alert through the Monday morning commute, as additional advisories may be issued if ice coverage expands overnight.
