Heavy rain and thunderstorms are gearing up to sweep across central and south-central Kansas, with Wichita, Hutchinson, and Emporia in the path of multiple storm waves through Thursday. With cooler temperatures and the risk of flash flooding, residents need to stay alert and plan ahead, especially during nighttime hours when storms are expected to intensify.
Stormy Days Ahead for Central and South-Central Kansas
Starting late Tuesday, scattered storms are expected to roll in from the west and gain strength overnight. According to the National Weather Service in Wichita, the heaviest rainfall and strongest storms will likely hit Wednesday through early Thursday. With repeated waves of rain, the ground will become saturated quickly, raising the risk of flooding—especially in low-lying areas and spots with poor drainage.
Cities that could see significant rainfall totals include:
Wichita
Hutchinson
Emporia
These areas should be on high alert for flooded roads, rising creeks, and overflowing streams.
Flooding and Travel Concerns
Travel during these stormy periods could be tricky. Drivers on major routes like Interstate 35 and U.S. Highway 54 may experience:
Slower commutes due to heavy downpours
Water pooling on roads and highways
Poor visibility during storms
Delays due to road closures in flooded areas
Here are some safety tips:
Avoid low-water crossings, even if they appear shallow
Keep mobile devices charged in case of power cuts
Drive slowly and carefully through rain-soaked roads
Stay tuned to weather alerts for real-time updates
Cooler Temperatures Add to the Mix
Despite the stormy weather, temperatures will stay below normal for this time of year. Daytime highs will range between the upper 60s and mid-70s, while nighttime lows will hover between the mid-50s and mid-60s—perfect weather for staying indoors and dry.
What to Expect Next
While storm chances decrease by Thursday night, a few isolated storms could linger into Friday. If rainfall continues to pile up or becomes more intense than expected, additional weather alerts or flood warnings may be issued.
Here’s a quick Five-Day Forecast for Wichita, Kansas to help plan your week:
| Day | Weather | Temperatures |
|---|---|---|
| Tuesday Night | Late storms expected | Lows 55–60 |
| Wednesday | Numerous thunderstorms, heavy rain | Highs 68–76 |
| Wednesday Night | Flash flooding possible | Lows 59–64 |
| Thursday | Morning storms, improving later | Highs 71–77 |
| Thursday Night | Few storms may linger | Lows 58–61 |
The next few days may be wet and stormy, but by preparing early and staying weather-aware, you can stay safe and avoid last-minute surprises. Keep an umbrella handy and avoid unnecessary travel during storm hours.
