A series of storms will develop along a weak cold front Monday afternoon, bringing gusty winds and small hail to parts of Kansas, especially in the northern and western regions.
The National Weather Service (NWS) in Wichita has issued a weather outlook, warning of potential storm risks through early Tuesday morning. Residents in the affected areas should stay alert and be prepared for possible changes in weather conditions.
Storm Risks for Kansas: Where the Threat is Highest
According to the NWS, the highest storm risk will affect areas like Russell and Salina, with Russell facing a 70% chance of storms and Salina at 54%. These storms are expected to bring 50 mph downburst winds, brief heavy rain, and isolated hail.
The threat of severe weather begins around 2 p.m. Monday and is expected to last through 7 a.m. Tuesday. The NWS is advising residents in these areas to stay prepared for sudden changes in weather.
Lower Storm Risk for Wichita and Surrounding Areas
While the Wichita metro area faces a much lower risk, with only an 11% chance of storms, other nearby cities like Hutchinson (25%) and Pratt (26%) have a slightly higher chance of experiencing some storm activity. These areas should remain vigilant as conditions may change quickly, especially as the cold front moves through the region.
Further east, cities like Topeka (38%) and Emporia (19%) could also see scattered showers, though the storms are expected to be less intense in these locations.
Storms Likely to Miss Southeast Kansas
The strongest storms are not expected to reach southeast Kansas, including areas like Coffeyville and Chanute, where the chances of storms are near zero. Those in these areas can expect mostly clear skies and calm weather, with minimal disruption from the approaching front.
Precautions and Safety Tips
As storms approach, outdoor plans in higher-risk areas should be closely monitored. The NWS advises residents to have a shelter plan ready, especially in places like Russell and Salina where severe weather is most likely.
It’s also important to stay updated on weather alerts from local sources, as storm conditions may change rapidly. Having access to a weather radio or smartphone alerts can help ensure safety during the storm threat.
Storms developing along a weak cold front will bring gusty winds, heavy rain, and small hail to parts of Kansas, especially in the north and west, from Monday afternoon into early Tuesday morning.
While Wichita faces a lower risk, other areas like Russell and Salina are more likely to experience severe weather. Residents are encouraged to stay informed, prepare for changing conditions, and monitor local weather updates throughout the day.
