Hot and cold air masses are crashing together in southwestern Kansas and weather experts are expecting Wednesday morning’s dawn to see damaging winds raging across north central and northeast Kansas.
The National Weather Service has issued a High-Wind Warning in effect from 9:00 AM to 9:00 PM Wednesday.
Emergency management officials are warning people to take this weather event seriously.
According to the NWS, sustained southwesterly winds of over 40 mph with frequent gusts above 70 mph.
Officials say the volatility will create isolated, unstable thunderstorms. Trees and power lines will be blown down and widespread power outages are expected.
Andrew Baker, senior communications manager for Evergy, said the utility company has a full complement of crews in place ready to respond. Baker said that Evergy has an active tree trimming and vegetation management program that, in addition to regular maintenance work, is the company’s best defense against high winds.
“With 70 mph winds, we could still experience wind-caused outages,” Baker said, adding that If customers experience an outage, it can be reported online at evergy.com or called in at 888-544-4852. Evergy has automated outage reporting that processes reports from many customers at once without a hold time.
The ferocious winds and low humidity combine to pose a severe fire danger as well. The NWS has issued a Fire Weather Watch for Wednesday, as critical fire weather conditions are forecast to persist.
Manhattan and Riley County are in FEMA wind zone IV, the highest inland wind category.
People should avoid being outside in forested areas and around trees and branches. If possible, remain in the lower levels of your home during the windstorm, and avoid windows. Travel will be difficult, especially for high profile vehicles. Officials are urging caution if you must drive.