Another wave of rain after early morning showers
Friday morning begins with early showers and thunderstorms across South Central Kansas, slowly moving eastward, while persistent rainfall to the north lingers and may regain intensity after sunrise. Despite the current Severe Thunderstorm Watch in Kay County, Oklahoma, the warning is expected to expire shortly as conditions stabilize temporarily.
A Flood Watch is now in effect for much of the region through Saturday, with area rivers already running high, sustaining localized Flood Warnings. Flash flooding remains a risk, especially in low-lying and flood-prone zones.
Evening thunderstorms with tornado potential
By Friday evening, another storm cluster will develop to the west, resembling Thursday night’s pattern. These storms may turn strong to severe, bringing threats of large hail, damaging wind, and isolated tornadoes, particularly in western and southwestern Kansas. Overnight, storms are expected to merge into a complex and track west to east, impacting a wide area into Saturday morning.
Saturday’s outlook: Quieter but not storm-free
As Saturday unfolds, conditions become less volatile. While a broad severe weather outbreak is not anticipated, areas near and east of the Kansas Turnpike—including portions of Northern Oklahoma—may still face isolated severe storms. However, the current forecast suggests this should not disrupt major weekend plans, though it’s crucial to stay weather-aware and follow real-time updates.
Sunday’s renewed risk: afternoon and evening storms
On Sunday, a cold front will move south, triggering another round of strong to severe thunderstorms. These will most likely ignite during the afternoon and evening, renewing threats of hail, gusty winds, and brief tornadoes, particularly in the southern and central plains.
Weekend temperatures: Warmer trend continues
Daytime temperatures will climb into the low 80s°F (around 27°C) on Friday and Saturday, with overnight lows in the low to mid 60s°F (around 17°C). Sunday continues the warm trend, reaching the upper 80s°F (around 31°C). This seasonal warmth will persist into next week, becoming the new normal.
Regional focus: Central vs western Kansas
While Central Kansas will experience a brief drying trend through midweek, Western Kansas will continue to deal with scattered rain and storm activity, especially in the afternoon and evening hours.
KSN Storm Track 3 Forecast for Wichita:
Today, Friday: Mostly cloudy with a 20% chance of showers and storms. High: 80°F (27°C). Winds from the north at 5–15 mph.
Tonight: Cloudy, increasing rain chances to 60% with scattered storms. Low: 63°F (17°C). Winds from the northeast at 5–15 mph.
Saturday: Partly to mostly cloudy, 20% chance of precipitation. High: 82°F (28°C). Winds from the east to west at 5–15 mph.
Saturday night: Partly cloudy, Low: 64°F (18°C). Winds shifting from the west to south at 5–15 mph.
