WICHITA, Kan. – A biting chill is gripping the plains this morning as Kansas braces for its first widespread hard freeze of the season. Under clear skies and calm winds, the air feels sharply colder than recent nights, with frost already forming on cars, roofs, and fields across Sedgwick and Butler Counties. This early-November snap is a firm reminder that winter’s slow crawl south has begun.
According to the National Weather Service in Wichita, a Freeze Warning remains in effect for much of central and southern Kansas through 8 a.m. Sunday. Subfreezing temperatures as low as 29°F are expected from Marion and Cowley Counties down through Harper and Labette, including the Wichita metro area. Officials urge residents to protect outdoor plumbing, wrap or drain garden hoses, and cover tender plants before dawn.
The coldest stretch will ease by midday Sunday, giving way to bright sun and calm winds. A rebound begins Monday as highs climb into the upper 60s, continuing a gradual warming trend into Tuesday and Wednesday. Despite the freeze, no precipitation is expected through midweek—a clean, dry window for travel along I-35 and U.S. 54.
To be fair, this isn’t the start of deep winter just yet. However, models hint at cooler air returning late next week, possibly hinting at the season’s first light moisture across northern Kansas. For now, residents can enjoy crisp mornings and mild afternoons—perfect for early holiday decorating or yard cleanup after Halloween.
Five-Day Forecast for Wichita, KS:
Sat: 52/32 – Sunny; patchy frost forming late.
Sun: 60/42 – Frost early; sunny and calm afternoon.
Mon: 66/50 – Mostly sunny; gradual warming.
Tue: 72/47 – Mild breeze; bright skies.
Wed: 69/47 – Sunny; comfortable late-fall pattern.
