textproduct: Wichita

KEY MESSAGES

- Temperatures remaining slightly below average through Monday.

- Warming trend commences early next week.

- Possible return of rain chances next weekend.

DISCUSSION

Issued at 318 AM CDT Sun Oct 18 2026

Weak mid/upper ridging remains situated across the southern and central CONUS while a strengthening lee trough over the Central High Plains has brought light southerly winds back to the area. This pattern will linger over the area through a good chunk of the upcoming week. The subtle shortwave trough over the Southwest is progged to lift NE toward the Central Plains early in the week which will likely result in an increase in mid lvl clouds on Mon-Tue with some weakening of the mid/upper ridge but dry air in the bottom of the column should preclude light shower activity through the work-week. Temperatures are expected to slowly moderate with seasonable values returning to the area on Mon-Tue and above average temperatures anticipated Wed-Sat.

A more robust mid/upper trough will emerge from the Rockies this weekend as it shears northeastward into the Northern Plains. This may bring a subtle increase in pops to the area late Sat while near or above average temperatures prevail through the end of the forecast period.

AVIATION /12Z TAFS THROUGH 12Z MONDAY/

Issued at 612 AM CDT Sun Oct 18 2026

VFR conditions are expected throughout the TAF period. Light southerly winds this morning will increase to around 15 kt with gusts up to 25 kt, especially across central KS where some 30 knot gusts will be possible this afternoon. Wind speeds will diminish during the evening hours remaining breezy in central Kansas.

ICT WATCHES/WARNINGS/ADVISORIES

None.