Wichita, KS– Large hail and damaging wind gusts could slam parts of Kansas late Thursday night as the first of two storm rounds moves across the state.
According to the National Weather Service in Wichita, strong to severe storms are expected to develop late Thursday night and continue into early Friday morning. Forecasters warn that large hail, wind gusts over 60 mph and brief heavy rainfall are the primary threats, especially across central and south-central Kansas.
The initial round places cities including Wichita, Hutchinson, Salina and Great Bend under a low to moderate severe risk. Pratt and Harper counties face a slightly higher chance for stronger storms late Thursday night into early Friday. Drivers along I-135 and U.S. Highway 54 should prepare for sudden visibility drops and ponding on roadways before daybreak Friday.
A second, potentially stronger round could ignite late Friday afternoon and last into early Saturday morning. The risk shifts east, increasing across Emporia, Eureka, Chanute and Coffeyville, where conditions may support more widespread severe storms and heavier rainfall.
Residents statewide should secure outdoor items, charge devices and ensure multiple ways to receive warnings overnight. Additional watches or warnings could be issued as each round develops.
Five Day Forecast for Wichita, Kansas
Thursday: Increasing clouds, storms late, high near 68.
Friday: Storms likely, some severe, high near 72.
Saturday: Morning storms ending, partly cloudy, high near 65.
Sunday: Mostly sunny, high near 70.
Monday: Dry and mild, high near 73.
