Early Friday: Local showers east of the Turnpike
As we step into Friday morning, showers are developing primarily across eastern Kansas, particularly east of the Kansas Turnpike. This is where the strongest chance of precipitation remains throughout the morning and potentially into the early afternoon.
Afternoon warmth and shifting storm focus westward
Temperatures will climb again today with highs generally in the 80s°F (27–32°C). A few spots, especially toward the northwest, could push into the low 90s°F (32–34°C). As the heat builds, storm potential will begin to shift west, where a few isolated storms may develop late in the day.
Although the Storm Prediction Center has lowered the risk for severe storms, it’s still important to note that a couple of stronger thunderstorms can’t be ruled out, with gusty winds or hail possible.
Friday night: Repeating the pattern with overnight threats
Storms forming late Friday to the west are expected to weaken by early Saturday morning, but some cells may remain active overnight. These overnight storms could contain brief severe elements, including damaging wind gusts or quarter-size hail.
Saturday: More widespread impacts and stronger threats at night
By Saturday afternoon, some lingering showers may persist, though activity will mostly die down by midday. However, Saturday evening and night appear more active with stronger storm systems expected to push across a broader area.
The greatest threats Saturday night will come from large hail and damaging winds, particularly across south-central and eastern Kansas. This will be a setup that warrants careful monitoring, especially as we move into the late evening hours.
Sunday into next week: Storm pattern continues with summer heat
The stormy pattern will repeat late Sunday and could linger into early next week, aligning with the early arrival of summertime temperatures. While Summer officially begins next Friday, the forecast is already reflecting mid-summer conditions across much of Kansas.
Wichita forecast summary
Today (Friday): Mostly cloudy with a 30% chance of showers and storms. High near 80°F (27°C). Winds from the southeast at 8 to 18 mph.
Tonight: Mostly cloudy with a 20% chance of rain. Low near 66°F (19°C).
Saturday: Partly to mostly cloudy. Slight 20% chance of scattered storms. High of 89°F (32°C). Low around 70°F (21°C).
Sunday: Partly cloudy and warmer. Isolated storm chances near 10%. High of 91°F (33°C) with an overnight low of 70°F (21°C).
Monday: Breezy and mostly dry. High near 92°F (33°C). Low around 71°F (22°C). Just a slight 10% risk for a stray shower.
