Wichita, Kansas – Central and South Central Kansas are bracing for another round of extreme summer heat, with triple-digit temperatures and high humidity pushing heat index values well above 100°F. The National Weather Service (NWS) has extended heat advisories for Wichita, Salina, Hutchinson, and surrounding cities through Friday evening.
On Thursday, heat index readings are expected to peak near 107°F through 8 p.m. Conditions will intensify Friday, when values could climb as high as 108°F between 1 p.m. and 8 p.m. The advisories span a large area, covering counties from Russell, Saline, Reno, Sedgwick, Kingman, and McPherson, to southeast Kansas cities like Winfield, El Dorado, Parsons, and Coffeyville.
Officials are urging residents to take serious precautions to prevent heat-related illnesses. That includes limiting time outdoors, avoiding strenuous activity during peak hours, staying hydrated, and checking in on elderly neighbors, young children, and others at higher risk. For those without air conditioning, cooling centers and public facilities may offer safe relief from the heat.
The NWS warns that hot pavement, unshaded outdoor areas, and public spaces can become dangerously hot during the day, increasing the risk of heat exhaustion or heat stroke. Outdoor workers should wear light-colored, loose clothing and take frequent breaks in shaded or air-conditioned areas.
The current advisories remain in place until 8 p.m. Friday, but weather officials caution that updates or additional warnings could follow if extreme heat lingers into the weekend. Residents are encouraged to monitor local forecasts and emergency alerts for the latest information.
This prolonged heat wave is a reminder that summer temperatures in Kansas can be just as hazardous as severe storms. Taking preventive measures now can help protect yourself and others from serious health risks during this dangerous stretch of weather.
