Wichita, Kansas – Light snow flurries combined with dangerously cold temperatures are expected to impact central Kansas through Saturday, raising concerns for travel and outdoor exposure.
According to the National Weather Service in Wichita, a few snow flurries are possible overnight, with light snow showers and flurries likely Friday. While snowfall amounts are expected to remain light, forecasters note that enough snow may fall to briefly cover the ground, particularly on untreated surfaces.
Temperatures will trend sharply colder as arctic air settles into the region. Overnight lows tonight are expected to range from 11 to 15 degrees, followed by Friday night lows between 0 and 4 degrees. Gusty winds will drive wind chill values down to between -10 and -15 degrees Friday night into early Saturday.
The coldest conditions are expected near major transportation corridors including Interstate 35, Interstate 135, US-54, US-400, and the Kansas Turnpike, where open exposure can intensify wind chill effects. Drivers may encounter slick spots during periods of flurries, especially overnight and during early morning hours.
Forecasters warn that prolonged exposure to these temperatures can increase the risk of frostbite and hypothermia, particularly for individuals without adequate cold-weather protection. Residents are urged to dress in layers, limit time outdoors, and ensure proper heating indoors.
The National Weather Service also recommends checking on elderly neighbors, family members, and those without reliable heat, while bringing pets indoors during the coldest periods. Vehicle owners should ensure batteries are charged and fuel tanks remain sufficiently full.
For students, shift workers, and early-morning commuters, the cold may be most noticeable late Friday night through Saturday morning, especially near highways and open parking areas.
Conditions are expected to slowly improve later Saturday as temperatures moderate, but officials emphasize that the combination of cold, wind, and light snow may still create localized hazards.
