Wichita, it’s time to prepare! A storm is heading our way early Thursday morning, and it’s bringing some serious weather with it. We’re talking strong winds, hail, and heavy rain—all of which could make your morning commute a real challenge. Here’s everything you need to know to stay safe and ahead of the storm.
What to Expect?
Thursday morning’s storm is going to bring a lot of different hazards. Here’s what you can expect:
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60 MPH Winds: These winds could cause power outages, knock down branches, and blow around anything that isn’t securely tied down. If you have outdoor furniture, trash cans, or other items that could get blown around, make sure to bring them inside or secure them before the storm hits.
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Large Hail: There’s a good chance we’ll see some large hail in the area, which could damage your car, roof, and even plants or crops. If you’re out and about and the storm starts picking up, seek shelter right away to avoid getting caught in it.
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Heavy Rain and Flash Flooding: The rain won’t just be light—it’ll be heavy, and it’ll come down fast. This could lead to localized flooding, especially in areas that are prone to it. If you’re driving, stay cautious of standing water on the roads, especially in the early hours of the morning.
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Lightning: Expect frequent lightning throughout the storm. It could cause power outages and add to the risks of being outside. Stay inside until it passes!
When Will It Hit?
The storm will hit early Thursday morning, most likely between 6:00 AM and 9:00 AM. This is when the winds, hail, and rain will be the most intense. After that, the storm will begin to move out, and things should calm down by midday. However, don’t be surprised if you still see some gusty winds and lingering rain throughout the afternoon.
How to Stay Safe
Here are some simple steps you can take to stay safe when the storm rolls in:
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Avoid driving if you can: If you don’t need to be on the roads, it’s best to stay off them during the storm. The combination of hail, flooded streets, and poor visibility will make it tough to navigate safely. If you absolutely have to drive, slow down, keep your headlights on, and watch for debris.
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Seek shelter when the storm hits: If you’re at home, stay indoors during the worst of it. Stay away from windows and avoid being near anything that could be blown around. If you have a basement or an interior room, head there to stay safe.
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Bring in or secure outdoor items: The strong winds will likely send outdoor furniture, trash cans, and other objects flying. Now’s the time to bring them inside or secure them so they don’t get tossed around by the wind.
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Stay informed: Keep an eye on weather alerts or check your phone for updates. Knowing when the worst of the storm is hitting will help you plan accordingly.
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Prepare for power outages: With the combination of wind and lightning, power could go out. Be sure to have flashlights, batteries, and emergency supplies handy just in case.
What’s Next?
Once the storm moves out, expect clearing skies and warmer temperatures by the afternoon, with much calmer conditions for the rest of the day. Thankfully, this will just be a quick but intense storm, and we’ll be back to sunshine and mild temperatures soon.
