People living in Wichita and across central and southeast Kansas should get ready for a wet and stormy Sunday. Scattered thunderstorms are expected to roll in, bringing gusty winds, small hail, and heavy rain in some areas — especially west of Highway 281.
If you have travel plans, outdoor events, or evening errands, it’s best to stay alert and plan ahead.
Storms Set to Develop Sunday Afternoon
According to the National Weather Service in Wichita, storm chances will begin to rise Sunday morning, becoming stronger by the afternoon and evening. The Flint Hills region could see the most active weather, with:
Scattered thunderstorms
Small hail
Heavy downpours in some areas
Even though widespread severe weather isn’t expected, quick weather changes may still lead to poor visibility and slippery roads. While spotter activation is not likely, residents should remain cautious as storms develop.
Driving Tips for Stormy Weather
Stormy evenings can lead to unsafe driving conditions. Here’s how to stay safe on the roads:
Drive slowly and allow more time for your commute
Avoid flooded roads – even shallow water can be dangerous
Turn on headlights to improve visibility
Keep a safe distance from the car ahead
The area west of Highway 281 is likely to see the strongest weather impacts, so drivers in those regions should be extra careful.
Weather Outlook for Wichita and Nearby Areas
Sunday will bring stormy weather for most of the day in Wichita, with highs around 84°C and south winds gusting up to 22 mph, which might affect outdoor activities. The good news? Skies clear by Monday, and a brief stretch of calm weather follows before the next round of storms returns.
Here’s a simple breakdown of the five-day forecast for Wichita, Kansas:
| Day | Forecast | High Temp |
|---|---|---|
| Sunday | Scattered storms from late morning into evening | 84°F |
| Monday | Sunny, calm and dry | 88°F |
| Tuesday | Partly sunny, storms likely late at night | 87°F |
| Wednesday | Showers and storms during the day | 82°F |
| Thursday | Mostly sunny, fall-like feel | 82°F |
More Storms Midweek, Then Calmer Weather
While Monday looks clear and dry, more thunderstorms are expected Tuesday night through Wednesday, continuing the unsettled weather pattern. Some of these could be strong, though they are not expected to be widespread or severe.
By Thursday, conditions will calm down, with sunny skies and mild fall-like temperatures making a welcome return.
How to Stay Safe and Prepared
Kansas weather can shift quickly, especially during storm season. Here are a few tips to help you stay ahead of the weather:
Keep your phone charged and have a backup power bank
Turn on weather alerts or check the forecast regularly
Avoid travel during storms if possible
Have an emergency plan in case the weather worsens
Even though these storms aren’t expected to be severe, they can still cause travel delays and affect your outdoor plans. Stay informed and ready to adjust your day as needed.
As scattered thunderstorms return to Kansas this Sunday, drivers and residents should stay cautious, especially during the afternoon and evening. The risk of gusty winds, small hail, and heavy rain is highest in areas west of Highway 281 and the Flint Hills.
While severe weather is unlikely, quick changes in conditions could still cause trouble on the roads. After a break in the rain on Monday, more storms are expected midweek before calmer, cooler weather arrives by Thursday.
