Big hail, high winds, possibly a tornado forecast for Kansas tonight. Here’s when and where
Sunny and breezy conditions Monday could change by nightfall in Wichita. The area is forecast to see thunderstorms that could bring up to quarter-size hail and 70 mph winds.
These scattered strong to severe storms are forecast from midnight to 6 a.m. Wichita National Weather Service meteorologist Kevin Darmofal said areas north of Wichita are more likely to be affected.
“The impact for Wichita will probably be more limited or isolated, but there’s still a threat,” Darmofal said. “The better chances for these storms would be from Salina to the Great Bend area in central Kansas.”
Areas west of Wichita could see baseball-sized hail, 70 mph winds and the possibility of a tornado between 6 p.m. to midnight.
An NWS detailed forecast for Wichita says showers and thunderstorms are expected before 4 a.m. with a 70% chance of precipitation. That number drops to a 30% chance of showers and thunderstorms Tuesday before 7 a.m.
A wind advisory will go into effect Monday at 2 p.m. During this time, 25-30 mph winds with gusts up to 45 mph are expected in portions of central and southeast Kansas.
Some areas could see wind gusts as high as 50-70 mph. The advisory will expire by 1 a.m. Tuesday, according to the NWS.
McConnell Air Force Base have moved aircraft away from the base because of the threat of severe weather.
“The relocation protects the aircraft from potential damage, preserving McConnell’s ability to provide air refueling, airlift and aeromedical evacuation support around the globe,” the base said Monday.
Looking ahead, Tuesday is forecast to have a sunny high of 79 and Wednesday 78. Thursday is expected to have a high of 74, with a 20% chance of showers and thunderstorms.
This story was originally published April 15, 2024 at 2:06 PM.