Updated at 9:30 a.m., Friday, April 26

Thunderstorms will rumble through the far northeastern parts of Kansas today, with another round of severe weather on the forecast for tomorrow.

Yesterday evening, <a href="https://salinapost.com/posts/2da4fb8f-3f17-4c38-80ea-57990a5a74c5">a tornado struck rural Cheyanne County in western Kansas</a> and caused no damage or injuries. Although yesterday had an enhanced risk for cyclonic activity, few supercells spun into large damaging storms.

From this article's original publication on Wednesday, April 24.

After thunderstorms rumble through the area on Friday afternoon, Kleinsasser and other meteorologists at NWS Wichita forecast an increased potential for severe weather stretching from Salina to northern Texas on Saturday.

"We've got another potential for&nbsp;some&nbsp;scattered thunderstorms," Kleinsasser said. "Some of those may be severe&nbsp;as well&nbsp;with large hail, damaging winds and possibly some tornadoes as well Saturday afternoon into Saturday night."

READ MORE: <a href="https://salinapost.com/posts/df1b8a0b-f725-4e8d-b0b2-66d87796bd64">Spring ahead of schedule in Kansas — climatologists uncertain for severe weather season</a>

Often, severe weather only impacts a small area, so although the forecast spreads across most of Kansas and large areas of the Great Plains, it will likely strike in isolated areas.&nbsp;

Salina has a slight risk for severe weather on Saturday afternoon and evening, which Kleinsasser said residents should prepare for by making a severe weather action plan.

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By OLIVIA BERGMEIER Lead Reporter - Salina Post

<a href="https://www.spc.noaa.gov/products/outlook/day2otlk.html">The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration Storm Prediction Center</a>&nbsp;(NOAA SPC) forecasted a multi-day severe weather outbreak headed for the Great Plains, with pockets of stronger storms possible across central and north-central Kansas through the weekend.

<a href="https://www.weather.gov/ict/">U.S. National Weather Service Wichita</a> (NWS Wichita) Meteorologist Andy Kleinsasser said showers and moderate thunderstorms are on Salina's forecast for this evening into Thursday morning.

Still, stronger weather may follow on Thursday afternoon.

The current forecast shows more significant chances for severe thunderstorms west of Salina and Interstate 135 in the late afternoon and evening. 

However, Kleinsasser said central Kansas still has an increased chance for severe weather.

"Tomorrow evening through Friday morning is&nbsp;what we call&nbsp;more of a conditional threat," Kleinsasser said. "Most of the storms may stay out in western Kansas, but there is a chance after dark we could get a few thunderstorms into the Wichita and Salina areas."&nbsp;

"If we do get those storms, they could be severe, with some large hail and damaging winds, and you can't rule out an isolated tornado as well."

The NOAA SPC forecast shows a hatched area of increased risk, which Kleinsasser said predicts that thunderstorms in that area have an increased risk of developing into concerning supercells.

"Hatched risk is an area that the Storm Prediction Center forecasters are concerned with a chance for higher in severe weather," Kleinsasser said. "When I say higher in severe weather [that means] hail greater than two inches in diameter... it also would include the potential for some strong, violent tornadoes — tornadoes that are EF-2 in intensity and stronger."

The chance for severe weather doesn't end Thursday night, as Friday morning has a lower chance than Thursday, but localized heavy rain and large hail are still possible.

After thunderstorms rumble through the area on Friday afternoon, Kleinsasser and other meteorologists at NWS Wichita forecast an increased potential for severe weather stretching from Salina to northern Texas on Saturday.

"We've got another potential for&nbsp;some&nbsp;scattered thunderstorms," Kleinsasser said. "Some of those may be severe&nbsp;as well&nbsp;with large hail, damaging winds and possibly some tornadoes as well Saturday afternoon into Saturday night."

Often, severe weather only impacts a small area, so although the forecast spreads across most of Kansas and large areas of the Great Plains, it will likely strike in isolated areas.&nbsp;

Salina has a slight risk for severe weather on Saturday afternoon and evening, which Kleinsasser said residents should prepare for by making a severe weather action plan.

"People always say, 'It never hits us,' because it's&nbsp;really hard&nbsp;to get hit by a severe thunderstorm because most storms aren't severe. But the few that become severe could be pretty big the next few days," Kleinsasser said.&nbsp;"We recommend that people have a plan, and they&nbsp;communicate that plan with their family, especially if they have young kids."

Kleinsasser&nbsp;said he recommends&nbsp;that residents have multiple ways to receive critical weather information through any device, including television sets, cellphones and battery-powered radios.

In the next few days, much of the forecasted area for predicted severe weather stays along Interstates 135 and 70, which could impact some drivers through the weekend.

Those traveling this weekend along those routes and other major traffic zones should prepare by keeping a radar application or website easily accessible.

"Folks driving need to stay aware where the storms are and use radar apps — phone radar apps are a dime a dozen, and most of them are free," Kleinsasser said. "We encourage people to have a radar app and keep their eyes on the sky. If it looks really bad and dark up ahead, maybe pull over and use that radar app. If there's a big red blob or a warning, don't drive into it — wait it out."

For more information and live weather updates, visit the Salina Post <a href="https://salinapost.com/posts/3382e0fa-42e9-4e7c-adce-3f27c5c1f668">Live Weather Radar page</a> to see storm chaser locations and other weather information.

Updated at 9:30 a.m., Friday, April 26<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/4/1714140883422.png" alt="The U.S. National Weather Service Wichita (NWS Wichita) predicts multiple rounds of strong to sever storms and heavy rain through the weekend. Graphic courtesy NWS Wichita" />
 <figcaption>The U.S. National Weather Service Wichita (NWS Wichita) predicts multiple rounds of strong to sever storms and heavy rain through the weekend. Graphic courtesy NWS Wichita</figcaption>
 </figure>Thunderstorms will rumble through the far northeastern parts of Kansas today, with another round of severe weather on the forecast for tomorrow.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/4/1714141043422.png" alt="The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration Storm Prediction Center's (NOAA SPC) Categorical Outlook for Friday, April 26. Graphic courtesy NOAA SPC" />
 <figcaption>The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration Storm Prediction Center's (NOAA SPC) Categorical Outlook for Friday, April 26. Graphic courtesy NOAA SPC</figcaption>
 </figure>Yesterday evening, <a href="https://salinapost.com/posts/2da4fb8f-3f17-4c38-80ea-57990a5a74c5">a tornado struck rural Cheyanne County in western Kansas</a> and caused no damage or injuries. Although yesterday had an enhanced risk for cyclonic activity, few supercells spun into large damaging storms.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/4/1714145728171.png" alt="Severe storms possible in the eastern part of Kansas. Graphic courtesy U.S. National Weather Service Wichita (NWS Wichita)." />
 <figcaption>Severe storms possible in the eastern part of Kansas. Graphic courtesy U.S. National Weather Service Wichita (NWS Wichita).</figcaption>
 </figure>From this article's original publication on Wednesday, April 24.After thunderstorms rumble through the area on Friday afternoon, Kleinsasser and other meteorologists at NWS Wichita forecast an increased potential for severe weather stretching from Salina to northern Texas on Saturday."We've got another potential for&nbsp;some&nbsp;scattered thunderstorms," Kleinsasser said. "Some of those may be severe&nbsp;as well&nbsp;with large hail, damaging winds and possibly some tornadoes as well Saturday afternoon into Saturday night."READ MORE: <a href="https://salinapost.com/posts/df1b8a0b-f725-4e8d-b0b2-66d87796bd64">Spring ahead of schedule in Kansas — climatologists uncertain for severe weather season</a><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/4/1714145886406.png" alt="Saturday's outlook for severe weather from the U.S. National Weather Service Wichita (NWS Wichita). Graphic courtesy NWS Wichita" />
 <figcaption>Saturday's outlook for severe weather from the U.S. National Weather Service Wichita (NWS Wichita). Graphic courtesy NWS Wichita</figcaption>
 </figure>Often, severe weather only impacts a small area, so although the forecast spreads across most of Kansas and large areas of the Great Plains, it will likely strike in isolated areas.&nbsp;Salina has a slight risk for severe weather on Saturday afternoon and evening, which Kleinsasser said residents should prepare for by making a severe weather action plan.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/4/1714145984472.png" alt="The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration Storm Prediction Center's (NOAA SPC) Tornado Outlook issued on Friday, April 26 for Saturday, April 27. Graphic courtesy NOAA SPC" />
 <figcaption>The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration Storm Prediction Center's (NOAA SPC) Tornado Outlook issued on Friday, April 26 for Saturday, April 27. Graphic courtesy NOAA SPC</figcaption>
 </figure>---------------------------------------------------------<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/4/1714051821398.jpeg" alt="National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration Storm Prediction Center (NOAA SPC) severe weather Categorical Outlook for Thursday, April 25. Issued on Thursday, April 25. Graphic courtesy NOAA SPC" />
 <figcaption>National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration Storm Prediction Center (NOAA SPC) severe weather Categorical Outlook for Thursday, April 25. Issued on Thursday, April 25. Graphic courtesy NOAA SPC</figcaption>
 </figure>By OLIVIA BERGMEIER Lead Reporter - Salina Post<a href="https://www.spc.noaa.gov/products/outlook/day2otlk.html">The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration Storm Prediction Center</a>&nbsp;(NOAA SPC) forecasted a multi-day severe weather outbreak headed for the Great Plains, with pockets of stronger storms possible across central and north-central Kansas through the weekend.<a href="https://www.weather.gov/ict/">U.S. National Weather Service Wichita</a> (NWS Wichita) Meteorologist Andy Kleinsasser said showers and moderate thunderstorms are on Salina's forecast for this evening into Thursday morning. <figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/4/1713993665910.png" alt="The U.S. National Weather Service Wichita (NWS Wichita) outlook for Thursday morning thunderstorms across the region. Graphic courtesy NWS Wichita" />
 <figcaption>The U.S. National Weather Service Wichita (NWS Wichita) outlook for Thursday morning thunderstorms across the region. Graphic courtesy NWS Wichita</figcaption>
 </figure>Still, stronger weather may follow on Thursday afternoon.The current forecast shows more significant chances for severe thunderstorms west of Salina and Interstate 135 in the late afternoon and evening. However, Kleinsasser said central Kansas still has an increased chance for severe weather.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/4/1714052137917.jpeg" alt="The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration Storm Prediction Center (NOAA SPC) Hail Outlook for Thursday, April 25. Graphic courtesy NOAA SPC" />
 <figcaption>The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration Storm Prediction Center (NOAA SPC) Hail Outlook for Thursday, April 25. Graphic courtesy NOAA SPC</figcaption>
 </figure>"Tomorrow evening through Friday morning is&nbsp;what we call&nbsp;more of a conditional threat," Kleinsasser said. "Most of the storms may stay out in western Kansas, but there is a chance after dark we could get a few thunderstorms into the Wichita and Salina areas."&nbsp;"If we do get those storms, they could be severe, with some large hail and damaging winds, and you can't rule out an isolated tornado as well."The NOAA SPC forecast shows a hatched area of increased risk, which Kleinsasser said predicts that thunderstorms in that area have an increased risk of developing into concerning supercells.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/4/1714051905047.jpeg" alt="National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration Storm Prediction Center (NOAA SPC) severe weather Tornado Probability Outlook for Thursday, April 25. Issued on Thursday, April 25. Graphic courtesy NOAA SPC" />
 <figcaption>National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration Storm Prediction Center (NOAA SPC) severe weather Tornado Probability Outlook for Thursday, April 25. Issued on Thursday, April 25. Graphic courtesy NOAA SPC</figcaption>
 </figure>"Hatched risk is an area that the Storm Prediction Center forecasters are concerned with a chance for higher in severe weather," Kleinsasser said. "When I say higher in severe weather [that means] hail greater than two inches in diameter... it also would include the potential for some strong, violent tornadoes — tornadoes that are EF-2 in intensity and stronger."The chance for severe weather doesn't end Thursday night, as Friday morning has a lower chance than Thursday, but localized heavy rain and large hail are still possible.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/4/1713993842587.png" alt="A closer look at the conditional risk for severe weather on Friday, April 27. Issued by the U.S. National Weather Service Wichita (NWS Wichita) on Wednesday, April 24. Graphic courtesy NWS Wichita" />
 <figcaption>A closer look at the conditional risk for severe weather on Friday, April 27. Issued by the U.S. National Weather Service Wichita (NWS Wichita) on Wednesday, April 24. Graphic courtesy NWS Wichita</figcaption>
 </figure>After thunderstorms rumble through the area on Friday afternoon, Kleinsasser and other meteorologists at NWS Wichita forecast an increased potential for severe weather stretching from Salina to northern Texas on Saturday."We've got another potential for&nbsp;some&nbsp;scattered thunderstorms," Kleinsasser said. "Some of those may be severe&nbsp;as well&nbsp;with large hail, damaging winds and possibly some tornadoes as well Saturday afternoon into Saturday night."READ MORE: <a href="https://salinapost.com/posts/df1b8a0b-f725-4e8d-b0b2-66d87796bd64">Spring ahead of schedule in Kansas — climatologists uncertain for severe weather season</a>Often, severe weather only impacts a small area, so although the forecast spreads across most of Kansas and large areas of the Great Plains, it will likely strike in isolated areas.&nbsp;Salina has a slight risk for severe weather on Saturday afternoon and evening, which Kleinsasser said residents should prepare for by making a severe weather action plan.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/4/1714052010131.jpeg" alt="U.S. National Weather Service Wichita (NWS Wichita) forecast for Saturday afternoon and evening. All severe hazards remain possible. Graphic courtesy NWS Wichita." />
 <figcaption>U.S. National Weather Service Wichita (NWS Wichita) forecast for Saturday afternoon and evening. All severe hazards remain possible. Graphic courtesy NWS Wichita.</figcaption>
 </figure>"People always say, 'It never hits us,' because it's&nbsp;really hard&nbsp;to get hit by a severe thunderstorm because most storms aren't severe. But the few that become severe could be pretty big the next few days," Kleinsasser said.&nbsp;"We recommend that people have a plan, and they&nbsp;communicate that plan with their family, especially if they have young kids."Kleinsasser&nbsp;said he recommends&nbsp;that residents have multiple ways to receive critical weather information through any device, including television sets, cellphones and battery-powered radios.In the next few days, much of the forecasted area for predicted severe weather stays along Interstates 135 and 70, which could impact some drivers through the weekend.Those traveling this weekend along those routes and other major traffic zones should prepare by keeping a radar application or website easily accessible."Folks driving need to stay aware where the storms are and use radar apps — phone radar apps are a dime a dozen, and most of them are free," Kleinsasser said. "We encourage people to have a radar app and keep their eyes on the sky. If it looks really bad and dark up ahead, maybe pull over and use that radar app. If there's a big red blob or a warning, don't drive into it — wait it out."For more information and live weather updates, visit the Salina Post <a href="https://salinapost.com/posts/3382e0fa-42e9-4e7c-adce-3f27c5c1f668">Live Weather Radar page</a> to see storm chaser locations and other weather information.

UPDATED: Multi-day severe weather outbreak in the forecast for the Great Plains

Join King in the Community host and Salina Post News Director Nate King as he discusses severe weather preparedness in Saline County with special guest Alyssa Sanchez, new Saline County deputy emergency management director.

 Learn about the importance of having a preparedness kit, an emergency plan, and how to stay informed during severe weather events. On this episode, you will discover crucial tips for tornado preparedness and find out how Saline County coordinates with other counties during emergencies.

Stay weather aware and be ready, so thay way you don't have to get ready when disaster strikes.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.salinecountyks.gov/emergency-management">Check out Saline County Emergency Management's website here.&nbsp;</a>

For LIVE weather radar, check out&nbsp;<a href="https://salinapost.com/pages/severe-weather">Salina Post's weather tab here.</a>&nbsp;

READ MORE:&nbsp;<a href="https://salinapost.com/posts/d2b3acb9-76c3-48e9-91da-f09b38115c0f">UPDATED: Multi-day severe weather outbreak in the forecast for the Great Plains</a>

<div><iframe title="Alyssa Sanchez, Deputy Director for Saline County Emergency Management" allowtransparency="true" height="150" width="100%" style="border: none; min-width: min(100%, 430px);height:150px;" scrolling="no" data-name="pb-iframe-player" src="https://www.podbean.com/player-v2/?i=srddc-15f726b-pb&from=pb6admin&share=1&download=1&rtl=0&fonts=Arial&skin=60a0c8&font-color=&logo_link=episode_page&btn-skin=60a0c8" loading="lazy"></iframe></div>By SALINA POSTJoin King in the Community host and Salina Post News Director Nate King as he discusses severe weather preparedness in Saline County with special guest Alyssa Sanchez, new Saline County deputy emergency management director. Learn about the importance of having a preparedness kit, an emergency plan, and how to stay informed during severe weather events. On this episode, you will discover crucial tips for tornado preparedness and find out how Saline County coordinates with other counties during emergencies.Stay weather aware and be ready, so thay way you don't have to get ready when disaster strikes.&nbsp;<a href="https://www.salinecountyks.gov/emergency-management">Check out Saline County Emergency Management's website here.&nbsp;</a>For LIVE weather radar, check out&nbsp;<a href="https://salinapost.com/pages/severe-weather">Salina Post's weather tab here.</a>&nbsp;READ MORE:&nbsp;<a href="https://salinapost.com/posts/d2b3acb9-76c3-48e9-91da-f09b38115c0f">UPDATED: Multi-day severe weather outbreak in the forecast for the Great Plains</a>

🎙King in the Community: Alyssa Sanchez, Deputy Director at Saline County Emergency Management

Tonight A 30 percent chance of showers, mainly after 3 a.m. Increasing clouds, with a low of around 40. North northeast wind 5 to 8 mph. Saturday A 30 percent chance of showers, mainly between 2pm and 5pm. Mostly cloudy, with a high near 56. Northeast wind 8 to 11 mph, with gusts as high as 20 mph. Saturday Night A 20 percent chance of showers before 8 p.m. Mostly cloudy, with a low around 36. Northwest wind 6 to 8 mph. Sunday Mostly sunny, with a high near 62. Light north-northwest wind becoming west-northwest 5 to 9 mph in the morning.

Sunday Night Mostly clear, with a low around 41. Southwest wind 6 to 10 mph becoming south-southeast in the evening.&nbsp;&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/4/1713560949194.png" alt="NWS Weekend Forecast" />
 <figcaption>NWS Weekend Forecast</figcaption>
 </figure>Information Courtesy NWS-WichitaTonight A 30 percent chance of showers, mainly after 3 a.m. Increasing clouds, with a low of around 40. North northeast wind 5 to 8 mph. Saturday A 30 percent chance of showers, mainly between 2pm and 5pm. Mostly cloudy, with a high near 56. Northeast wind 8 to 11 mph, with gusts as high as 20 mph. Saturday Night A 20 percent chance of showers before 8 p.m. Mostly cloudy, with a low around 36. Northwest wind 6 to 8 mph. Sunday Mostly sunny, with a high near 62. Light north-northwest wind becoming west-northwest 5 to 9 mph in the morning.Sunday Night Mostly clear, with a low around 41. Southwest wind 6 to 10 mph becoming south-southeast in the evening.&nbsp;&nbsp;

NWS — weekend weather forecast

Strong to severe storms are possible early tonight across south central and southeast Kansas. If storms develop, they will be capable of damaging winds up to 60 mph, hail up to golf ball size, and a tornado cannot be ruled out. The risk should shift primarily into northeast Kansas after midnight.

For road conditions check out <a href="https://salinapost.com/pages/road-conditions">KDOT's KanDrive interactive map here.</a>&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/4/1713388008110.jpeg" alt="Strong to Severe Storms Possible early tonight. Image Courtesy NWS-Wichita" />
 <figcaption>Strong to Severe Storms Possible early tonight. Image Courtesy NWS-Wichita</figcaption>
 </figure>NWS-WichitaStrong to severe storms are possible early tonight across south central and southeast Kansas. If storms develop, they will be capable of damaging winds up to 60 mph, hail up to golf ball size, and a tornado cannot be ruled out. The risk should shift primarily into northeast Kansas after midnight.For road conditions check out <a href="https://salinapost.com/pages/road-conditions">KDOT's KanDrive interactive map here.</a>&nbsp;

NWS-Wichita — strong to severe storms possible early tonight

Salina Forecast Today Sunny, with a high near 83. Northwest wind 7 to 10 mph becoming south in the afternoon. Tonight A 20% chance of showers and thunderstorms after 4 a.m. Increasing clouds, with a low around 47. East-southeast wind 10 to 15 mph, with gusts as high as 22 mph. Thursday A chance of showers and thunderstorms before 11 a.m., then a slight chance of showers between 11 a.m. and 2 p.m. Cloudy, then gradually becoming mostly sunny, with a high near 63. Windy, with a north wind 25 to 30 mph, with gusts as high as 40 mph. Chance of precipitation is 40%. Thursday Night Increasing clouds, with a low of around 40. Breezy, with a north wind of 18 to 23 mph decreasing to 8 to 13 mph in the evening. Winds could gust as high as 32 mph. Friday Mostly cloudy, with a high near 59. Northeast wind 6 to 10 mph. Friday Night A 30% chance of rain after 2 a.m. Mostly cloudy, with a low of around 40.&nbsp;&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/4/1713370207553.png" alt="Image Courtesy NWS-Wichita" />
 <figcaption>Image Courtesy NWS-Wichita</figcaption>
 </figure>Salina Forecast Today Sunny, with a high near 83. Northwest wind 7 to 10 mph becoming south in the afternoon. Tonight A 20% chance of showers and thunderstorms after 4 a.m. Increasing clouds, with a low around 47. East-southeast wind 10 to 15 mph, with gusts as high as 22 mph. Thursday A chance of showers and thunderstorms before 11 a.m., then a slight chance of showers between 11 a.m. and 2 p.m. Cloudy, then gradually becoming mostly sunny, with a high near 63. Windy, with a north wind 25 to 30 mph, with gusts as high as 40 mph. Chance of precipitation is 40%. Thursday Night Increasing clouds, with a low of around 40. Breezy, with a north wind of 18 to 23 mph decreasing to 8 to 13 mph in the evening. Winds could gust as high as 32 mph. Friday Mostly cloudy, with a high near 59. Northeast wind 6 to 10 mph. Friday Night A 30% chance of rain after 2 a.m. Mostly cloudy, with a low of around 40.&nbsp;&nbsp;

NWS Wichita — Three day weather forecast, chance for thunderstorms 

Precipitation data courtesy&nbsp;<a href="https://www.cocorahs.org/">CoCoRaHS</a>&nbsp;and&nbsp;<a href="https://www.weather.gov/">The National Weather Service</a>.

Following precipitation events, check the&nbsp;<a href="https://salinapost.com/pages/recent-precipitation">precipitation totals page</a>&nbsp;on Salinapost.com

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/4/1713037640389.jpeg" alt="A large supercell impacts north-central Kansas on Wednesday, March 13. Photo by Olivia Bergmeier" />
 <figcaption>A large supercell impacts north-central Kansas on Wednesday, March 13. Photo by Olivia Bergmeier</figcaption>
 </figure>By SALINA POSTPrecipitation data courtesy&nbsp;<a href="https://www.cocorahs.org/">CoCoRaHS</a>&nbsp;and&nbsp;<a href="https://www.weather.gov/">The National Weather Service</a>.Following precipitation events, check the&nbsp;<a href="https://salinapost.com/pages/recent-precipitation">precipitation totals page</a>&nbsp;on Salinapost.comSalina —&nbsp; 0.19 inchesConcordia — 0.0 inchesEllsworth — 0.0 inchesLindsborg —&nbsp; 0.02 inchesAbilene —&nbsp; 0.05 inchesClay Center — 0.05 inchesMinneapolis — 0.0 inchesTescott — 0.0 inchesMcPherson — 0.15 inchesGypsum — 0.04 inchesInman — 0.0 inchesMarion — 0.64 inchesAssaria — 0.02 inches

CoCoRaHS 24-hour rain totals

At 9:01 p.m. Monday April 15 a tornado watch was issued for parts of Kansas, Nebraska, Oklahoma and Texas and will be in place until 3 a.m. CDT

BARBER COMANCHE DECATUR EDWARDS ELLIS&nbsp; ELLSWORTH&nbsp; FORD GOVE&nbsp; GRAHAM GRAY HASKELL HODGEMAN JEWELL KIOWA&nbsp; LANE FINNEY&nbsp; BARTON&nbsp; CLARK LINCOLN MEADE MITCHELL NESS NORTON OSBORN PAWNEE&nbsp;&nbsp; PHILLIPS PRATT RICE ROOKS RUSH RUSSELL SEWARD SHERIDAN SMITH STAFFORD TREGO

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/4/1713234848635.jpeg" alt="Tornado watch" />
 <figcaption>Tornado watch</figcaption>
 </figure>By SALINA POSTAt 9:01 p.m. Monday April 15 a tornado watch was issued for parts of Kansas, Nebraska, Oklahoma and Texas and will be in place until 3 a.m. CDTKANSAS COUNTIES INCLUDED ARE:BARBER COMANCHE DECATUR EDWARDS ELLIS&nbsp; ELLSWORTH&nbsp; FORD GOVE&nbsp; GRAHAM GRAY HASKELL HODGEMAN JEWELL KIOWA&nbsp; LANE FINNEY&nbsp; BARTON&nbsp; CLARK LINCOLN MEADE MITCHELL NESS NORTON OSBORN PAWNEE&nbsp;&nbsp; PHILLIPS PRATT RICE ROOKS RUSH RUSSELL SEWARD SHERIDAN SMITH STAFFORD TREGO

NWS: Tornado Watch issued for counties across Kansas, April 15

By OLIVIA BERGMEIER Salina Post

Lingering supercells, strong winds and possibly beneficial rain are on track for the Great Plains Monday evening, with an increased chance for a few stronger storms in north central Kansas after sundown. 

The <a href="https://www.spc.noaa.gov/products/outlook/day3otlk.html">National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration Storm Prediction Center</a> (NOAA SPC) forecasts a large area of enhanced and slight risks for severe weather beginning in the High Plains and extending through most of Nebraska, Kansas, Oklahoma and parts of Texas.

According to U.S. National Weather Service (NWS) Wichita Meteorologist Chris Jakub, the forecast data shows an increased risk for thunderstorms in central and north-central Kansas later at night.

"It's mainly going to be after dark," Jakub said. "It looks like it could have some lingering activity during the night and maybe into Tuesday morning."

Since storms will likely impact the Salina region after dark, Jakub said the chances for tornadic activity will decrease, but forecasts show other thunderstorm hazards continuing into early Tuesday morning.

Thunderstorms in north-central Kansas have the potential to form a line of storms, which could bring beneficial rain to the area.

"It's possible they [the thunderstorms] could get into a line. If that happens, it would reduce the severe weather," Jakub said. "It's a pretty good signal to bring some beneficial rain to the area because it's been quite dry."

Although Salina and nearby communities have a lower chance of seeing tornadic activity Monday evening, forecasts show damaging winds and large hail in the region.

Jakub said during severe weather events, he advises residents to keep more than two forms of receiving weather information. This could include smartphones, televisions, weather radios or other devices to connect to weather information.

READ MORE:&nbsp;<a href="https://salinapost.com/posts/c94f5311-29e7-47f1-abd0-9e89013c65dd">📸 LIVE First Fridays in downtown Salina — Friday, April 5</a>

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/4/1713189263045.jpeg" alt="Thunderstorm chances are expected to increase across the region Monday night, with a few severe storms possible as they move northeast across the region. Graphic courtesy U.S. National Weather Service Wichita" />
 <figcaption>Thunderstorm chances are expected to increase across the region Monday night, with a few severe storms possible as they move northeast across the region. Graphic courtesy U.S. National Weather Service Wichita</figcaption>
 </figure>By OLIVIA BERGMEIER Salina PostLingering supercells, strong winds and possibly beneficial rain are on track for the Great Plains Monday evening, with an increased chance for a few stronger storms in north central Kansas after sundown. The <a href="https://www.spc.noaa.gov/products/outlook/day3otlk.html">National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration Storm Prediction Center</a> (NOAA SPC) forecasts a large area of enhanced and slight risks for severe weather beginning in the High Plains and extending through most of Nebraska, Kansas, Oklahoma and parts of Texas.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/4/1713189152267.png" alt="National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration Storm Prediction Center (NOAA SPC) Categorical Outlook for severe weather probabilities. Issued on Monday, April 15. Graphic courtesy NOAA SPC" />
 <figcaption>National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration Storm Prediction Center (NOAA SPC) Categorical Outlook for severe weather probabilities. Issued on Monday, April 15. Graphic courtesy NOAA SPC</figcaption>
 </figure>According to U.S. National Weather Service (NWS) Wichita Meteorologist Chris Jakub, the forecast data shows an increased risk for thunderstorms in central and north-central Kansas later at night."It's mainly going to be after dark," Jakub said. "It looks like it could have some lingering activity during the night and maybe into Tuesday morning."Since storms will likely impact the Salina region after dark, Jakub said the chances for tornadic activity will decrease, but forecasts show other thunderstorm hazards continuing into early Tuesday morning.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/4/1713189189432.png" alt="National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration Storm Prediction Center (NOAA SPC) Probabilistic Tornado outlook. Issued on Monday, April 15. Graphic courtesy NOAA SPC" />
 <figcaption>National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration Storm Prediction Center (NOAA SPC) Probabilistic Tornado outlook. Issued on Monday, April 15. Graphic courtesy NOAA SPC</figcaption>
 </figure>Thunderstorms in north-central Kansas have the potential to form a line of storms, which could bring beneficial rain to the area."It's possible they [the thunderstorms] could get into a line. If that happens, it would reduce the severe weather," Jakub said. "It's a pretty good signal to bring some beneficial rain to the area because it's been quite dry."Although Salina and nearby communities have a lower chance of seeing tornadic activity Monday evening, forecasts show damaging winds and large hail in the region.Jakub said during severe weather events, he advises residents to keep more than two forms of receiving weather information. This could include smartphones, televisions, weather radios or other devices to connect to weather information.READ MORE:&nbsp;<a href="https://salinapost.com/posts/c94f5311-29e7-47f1-abd0-9e89013c65dd">📸 LIVE First Fridays in downtown Salina — Friday, April 5</a>

Severe weather forecast for Salina region, strong storms moving into Central Plains Monday

Today Increasing clouds, with a high near 84. Windy, with a southeast wind 8 to 18 mph increasing to 20 to 30 mph in the afternoon. Winds could gust as high as 39 mph.

Tonight Showers and thunderstorms likely, mainly after 3am. Mostly cloudy, with a low around 60. Breezy, with a south southeast wind 26 to 29 mph, with gusts as high as 41 mph. Chance of precipitation is 60%.

Tuesday A 40 percent chance of showers and thunderstorms. Mostly sunny, with a high near 80. Windy, with a southwest wind 20 to 30 mph, with gusts as high as 41 mph.

Tuesday Night Mostly clear, with a low around 52. Breezy, with a west northwest wind 18 to 25 mph, with gusts as high as 37 mph.

Wednesday Sunny, with a high near 77. Northwest wind 10 to 16 mph, with gusts as high as 24 mph.

Wednesday NightA 30 percent chance of showers and thunderstorms after 1am. Partly cloudy, with a low around 48.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/4/1713184377294.jpeg" alt="Image Courtesy NWS " />
 <figcaption>Image Courtesy NWS </figcaption>
 </figure>Today Increasing clouds, with a high near 84. Windy, with a southeast wind 8 to 18 mph increasing to 20 to 30 mph in the afternoon. Winds could gust as high as 39 mph.Tonight Showers and thunderstorms likely, mainly after 3am. Mostly cloudy, with a low around 60. Breezy, with a south southeast wind 26 to 29 mph, with gusts as high as 41 mph. Chance of precipitation is 60%.Tuesday A 40 percent chance of showers and thunderstorms. Mostly sunny, with a high near 80. Windy, with a southwest wind 20 to 30 mph, with gusts as high as 41 mph.Tuesday Night Mostly clear, with a low around 52. Breezy, with a west northwest wind 18 to 25 mph, with gusts as high as 37 mph.Wednesday Sunny, with a high near 77. Northwest wind 10 to 16 mph, with gusts as high as 24 mph. Wednesday NightA 30 percent chance of showers and thunderstorms after 1am. Partly cloudy, with a low around 48.

NWS-Wichita three day forecast, thunderstorms possible tonight

Today Sunny, with a high near 75. South wind 5 to 13 mph, with gusts as high as 18 mph.

Tonight Clear, with a low of around 51. South southeast wind 9 to 13 mph, with gusts as high as 20 mph. Saturday Mostly sunny, with a high near 87. Breezy, with a south southwest wind 10 to 15 mph increasing to 21 to 26 mph in the afternoon. Winds could gust as high as 36 mph. Saturday Night Mostly clear, with a low around 54. Breezy, with a south wind 18 to 23 mph decreasing to 10 to 15 mph after midnight. Winds could gust as high as 34 mph. Sunday Sunny, with a high near 91. West southwest wind 6 to 8 mph becoming east northeast in the afternoon. Sunday Night Mostly clear, with a low around 60. Monday A 30 percent chance of showers and thunderstorms after 1pm. Mostly sunny, with a high near 87. Breezy.&nbsp;&nbsp;

In 1934, winds atop Mount Washington, New Hampshire averaged 186 mph for 5 minutes with a peak gust of 231 mph, the strongest gust on record for the U.S. 

 At the time, the 231 mph gust had also been the highest wind speed ever recorded in the world until April 10th, 1996, when a 253 mph gust was measured at Barrow Island, Australia as Super Typhoon Olivia annihilated the region.

In 1927, the third deadliest tornado in Texas history occurred when a violent F5, averaging nearly 1 mile wide, went on a 35-mile rampage through Rocksprings, located in extreme South Texas. The huge twister killed 74 and injured 205, or about one-third of the town's population at the time. An estimated $1.23 million in damage resulted as 235 of the 247 buildings were destroyed, many of which were leveled.


In 1959, a snowstorm produced up to 10 inches in Central Kansas in a swath from Russell to Cottonwood Falls.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/4/1712941554553.png" alt="4-Day Weather Forecast for Salina, Kansas Courtesy NWS-Wichita" />
 <figcaption>4-Day Weather Forecast for Salina, Kansas Courtesy NWS-Wichita</figcaption>
 </figure>Today Sunny, with a high near 75. South wind 5 to 13 mph, with gusts as high as 18 mph.Tonight Clear, with a low of around 51. South southeast wind 9 to 13 mph, with gusts as high as 20 mph. Saturday Mostly sunny, with a high near 87. Breezy, with a south southwest wind 10 to 15 mph increasing to 21 to 26 mph in the afternoon. Winds could gust as high as 36 mph. Saturday Night Mostly clear, with a low around 54. Breezy, with a south wind 18 to 23 mph decreasing to 10 to 15 mph after midnight. Winds could gust as high as 34 mph. Sunday Sunny, with a high near 91. West southwest wind 6 to 8 mph becoming east northeast in the afternoon. Sunday Night Mostly clear, with a low around 60. Monday A 30 percent chance of showers and thunderstorms after 1pm. Mostly sunny, with a high near 87. Breezy.&nbsp;&nbsp;<h2>Today in Weather History, April 12</h2>In 1934, winds atop Mount Washington, New Hampshire averaged 186 mph for 5 minutes with a peak gust of 231 mph, the strongest gust on record for the U.S. At the time, the 231 mph gust had also been the highest wind speed ever recorded in the world until April 10th, 1996, when a 253 mph gust was measured at Barrow Island, Australia as Super Typhoon Olivia annihilated the region.In 1927, the third deadliest tornado in Texas history occurred when a violent F5, averaging nearly 1 mile wide, went on a 35-mile rampage through Rocksprings, located in extreme South Texas. The huge twister killed 74 and injured 205, or about one-third of the town's population at the time. An estimated $1.23 million in damage resulted as 235 of the 247 buildings were destroyed, many of which were leveled.

So much for spring. In 1959, a snowstorm produced up to 10 inches in Central Kansas in a swath from Russell to Cottonwood Falls.

NWS-Wichita — High temps and windy weather forecasted this weekend

Today Mostly sunny. Highs in the upper 60s. North winds 5 to 10 mph. Tonight Mostly cloudy. Lows in the lower 40s. Northeast winds 5 to 10 mph, becoming southeast after midnight. Wednesday Partly sunny. Highs in the lower 70s. Northwest winds 10 to 15 mph. Wednesday Night Partly cloudy in the evening, then clearing. Breezy with lows in the lower 40s. North winds 15 to 25 mph. Gusts up to 40 mph after midnight. Thursday Sunny, breezy with highs in the mid-60s. Northwest winds 20 to 25 mph with gusts up to 40 mph.

READ MORE:&nbsp;<a href="https://salinapost.com/posts/237f6955-339b-44aa-b7f0-a0812fc7281b">Salina City Commission April 8 — BSL study session and housing project agreements</a> Thursday Night And Friday Clear, breezy. Lows in the mid-30s. Highs in the mid-70s. Friday Night Clear. Not as cool with lows in the lower 50s. Saturday And Saturday Night Mostly clear and breezy. Highs in the mid-80s. Lows in the mid-50s. Sunday&nbsp; Sunny. Highs in the upper 80s. Sunday Night Mostly clear. Lows in the mid-50s. Monday Sunny. A slight chance of showers and thunderstorms in the afternoon. Highs in the mid-80s. Chance of rain 20 percent.&nbsp;&nbsp;

READ MORE:&nbsp;<a href="https://salinapost.com/posts/70c2560f-115b-4bc4-a4f0-6162d4329d63">Duxler Earns International Economic Developer Designation</a>

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/4/1712684380764.png" alt="NWS Forecast Through Thursday, April 11" />
 <figcaption>NWS Forecast Through Thursday, April 11</figcaption>
 </figure>Today Mostly sunny. Highs in the upper 60s. North winds 5 to 10 mph. Tonight Mostly cloudy. Lows in the lower 40s. Northeast winds 5 to 10 mph, becoming southeast after midnight. Wednesday Partly sunny. Highs in the lower 70s. Northwest winds 10 to 15 mph. Wednesday Night Partly cloudy in the evening, then clearing. Breezy with lows in the lower 40s. North winds 15 to 25 mph. Gusts up to 40 mph after midnight. Thursday Sunny, breezy with highs in the mid-60s. Northwest winds 20 to 25 mph with gusts up to 40 mph.READ MORE:&nbsp;<a href="https://salinapost.com/posts/237f6955-339b-44aa-b7f0-a0812fc7281b">Salina City Commission April 8 — BSL study session and housing project agreements</a> Thursday Night And Friday Clear, breezy. Lows in the mid-30s. Highs in the mid-70s. Friday Night Clear. Not as cool with lows in the lower 50s. Saturday And Saturday Night Mostly clear and breezy. Highs in the mid-80s. Lows in the mid-50s. Sunday&nbsp; Sunny. Highs in the upper 80s. Sunday Night Mostly clear. Lows in the mid-50s. Monday Sunny. A slight chance of showers and thunderstorms in the afternoon. Highs in the mid-80s. Chance of rain 20 percent.&nbsp;&nbsp;READ MORE:&nbsp;<a href="https://salinapost.com/posts/70c2560f-115b-4bc4-a4f0-6162d4329d63">Duxler Earns International Economic Developer Designation</a>

NWS-Wichita three day weather forecast

At 3:05 PM CDT SAT APR 6 2024

SEVERE THUNDERSTORM WATCH 89 was put into EFFECT. THE WATCH Was IN PLACE UNTIL 9:00 PM CDT.

KANSAS COUNTIES INCLUDED ARE:&nbsp;BUTLER&nbsp;&nbsp;CHASE CHAUTAUQUA&nbsp;CLAY&nbsp;&nbsp;CLOUD COWLEY&nbsp;DICKINSON&nbsp;&nbsp;ELK&nbsp;&nbsp;ELLSWORTH&nbsp;GEARY&nbsp;&nbsp;GREENWOOD HARVEY&nbsp;LINCOLN&nbsp;LYON&nbsp;&nbsp;MARION&nbsp;MARSHALL MCPHERSON MORRIS&nbsp;OTTAWA POTTAWATOMIE RENO&nbsp;REPUBLIC&nbsp;RICE&nbsp;&nbsp;RILEY&nbsp;SALINE&nbsp;&nbsp;SEDGWICK&nbsp;&nbsp;SUMNER
WABAUNSEE WASHINGTON

<h2>Severe Thunderstorm Watch</h2>SEVERE THUNDERSTORM WATCH OUTLINE UPDATEAt 3:05 PM CDT SAT APR 6 2024

SEVERE THUNDERSTORM WATCH 89 was put into EFFECT. THE WATCH Was IN PLACE UNTIL 9:00 PM CDT. KANSAS COUNTIES INCLUDED ARE:&nbsp;BUTLER&nbsp;&nbsp;CHASE CHAUTAUQUA&nbsp;CLAY&nbsp;&nbsp;CLOUD COWLEY&nbsp;DICKINSON&nbsp;&nbsp;ELK&nbsp;&nbsp;ELLSWORTH&nbsp;GEARY&nbsp;&nbsp;GREENWOOD HARVEY&nbsp;LINCOLN&nbsp;LYON&nbsp;&nbsp;MARION&nbsp;MARSHALL MCPHERSON MORRIS&nbsp;OTTAWA POTTAWATOMIE RENO&nbsp;REPUBLIC&nbsp;RICE&nbsp;&nbsp;RILEY&nbsp;SALINE&nbsp;&nbsp;SEDGWICK&nbsp;&nbsp;SUMNER
WABAUNSEE WASHINGTON

NWS-Wichita: Severe thunderstorm watch issued for Saline County

By OLIVIA BERGMEIER Salina Post

The spine of the central plains will likely see a line of fast-moving storms move through tomorrow, with broken-up storms beginning in the mid to late afternoon.

Before any lightning flashes, though, most Kansans will experience sustained winds at 35 to 40 mph, with gusts that could reach almost 60 mph. 

"The biggest concern that we're looking at as far as widespread is the strong gusty winds," said National Weather Service Wichita Meteorologist Bryan Baerg. "It's going to be a real thin line of thunderstorms, so maybe at any given location, you'll have storms for about 15 minutes to half an hour tomorrow, so it's not a long-duration storm event by any means." 

Storms will likely begin firing off between 5 and 7 p.m., with most developing from regions of central Nebraska to south-central Kansas. Baerg said the storms will move at a blistering pace, around 50 to 60 mph, moving to the northeast.

The main concern with this weekend's system will be the straight-line winds blowing through the state. Although Baerg said it would be a robust system, cyclonic activity or tornadoes are unlikely due to the gusty surface-level winds.

"The atmosphere just has so much wind in it that when you get a storm that comes over it, it could try to mix down those winds, but shoot, even without the storms, we're going to be dealing with nearly severe-caliber winds of near 60 mph anyways," Baerg said.

The strong winds will continue through Sunday. Baerg said they will switch directions and have sustained speeds of 25 to 30 mph, with gusts reaching near 50 mph throughout the morning. 

READ MORE:&nbsp;<a href="https://salinapost.com/posts/aa6c0045-c0c4-4336-ac58-6fb4cab6daa3">🎥 Planned burn turned into uncontrolled fire in rural Saline County</a>

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/4/1712342155688.jpeg" alt="A skinny, broken line of strong to severe storms is forecast to develop and move quickly northeastward Saturday afternoon and evening. Nickel to quarter-size hail, along with wind gusts to 65 mph, will be possible with the stronger storms. Graphic courtesy National Weather Service Wichita (NWS Wichita)" />
 <figcaption>A skinny, broken line of strong to severe storms is forecast to develop and move quickly northeastward Saturday afternoon and evening. Nickel to quarter-size hail, along with wind gusts to 65 mph, will be possible with the stronger storms. Graphic courtesy National Weather Service Wichita (NWS Wichita)</figcaption>
 </figure>By OLIVIA BERGMEIER Salina PostThe spine of the central plains will likely see a line of fast-moving storms move through tomorrow, with broken-up storms beginning in the mid to late afternoon.Before any lightning flashes, though, most Kansans will experience sustained winds at 35 to 40 mph, with gusts that could reach almost 60 mph. "The biggest concern that we're looking at as far as widespread is the strong gusty winds," said National Weather Service Wichita Meteorologist Bryan Baerg. "It's going to be a real thin line of thunderstorms, so maybe at any given location, you'll have storms for about 15 minutes to half an hour tomorrow, so it's not a long-duration storm event by any means." Storms will likely begin firing off between 5 and 7 p.m., with most developing from regions of central Nebraska to south-central Kansas. Baerg said the storms will move at a blistering pace, around 50 to 60 mph, moving to the northeast.The main concern with this weekend's system will be the straight-line winds blowing through the state. Although Baerg said it would be a robust system, cyclonic activity or tornadoes are unlikely due to the gusty surface-level winds."The atmosphere just has so much wind in it that when you get a storm that comes over it, it could try to mix down those winds, but shoot, even without the storms, we're going to be dealing with nearly severe-caliber winds of near 60 mph anyways," Baerg said.The strong winds will continue through Sunday. Baerg said they will switch directions and have sustained speeds of 25 to 30 mph, with gusts reaching near 50 mph throughout the morning. READ MORE:&nbsp;<a href="https://salinapost.com/posts/aa6c0045-c0c4-4336-ac58-6fb4cab6daa3">🎥 Planned burn turned into uncontrolled fire in rural Saline County</a>

Strong winds and thunderstorms moving into Kansas tomorrow 

Severe storms will likely impact southern Kansas from the Flint Hills down to far southeast Kansas this afternoon and evening, with storms firing off around 2 p.m. Monday.

According to the National Weather Service Wichita, the main threats in this storm include golf-ball-sized hail and 70 mph damaging winds. 

Parts of the storm could produce a few tornadoes before moving into Missouri and Arkansas.

READ MORE:&nbsp;<a href="https://salinapost.com/posts/df1b8a0b-f725-4e8d-b0b2-66d87796bd64">Spring ahead of schedule in Kansas — climatologists uncertain for severe weather season</a>

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/4/1711991772803.jpeg" alt="Severe storms are likely this afternoon and evening through the Flint Hills and especially southeast Kansas. Graphic courtesy National Weather Service Wichita" />
 <figcaption>Severe storms are likely this afternoon and evening through the Flint Hills and especially southeast Kansas. Graphic courtesy National Weather Service Wichita</figcaption>
 </figure>By SALINA POSTSevere storms will likely impact southern Kansas from the Flint Hills down to far southeast Kansas this afternoon and evening, with storms firing off around 2 p.m. Monday.According to the National Weather Service Wichita, the main threats in this storm include golf-ball-sized hail and 70 mph damaging winds. Parts of the storm could produce a few tornadoes before moving into Missouri and Arkansas.READ MORE:&nbsp;<a href="https://salinapost.com/posts/df1b8a0b-f725-4e8d-b0b2-66d87796bd64">Spring ahead of schedule in Kansas — climatologists uncertain for severe weather season</a>

NWS predicts severe storms for southern Kansas

Storms will be possible Monday afternoon and evening with locations east of Interstate 135 having the best chance to see storms.  Large hail, damaging winds and a couple tornadoes will be possible with the stronger storms. 

With this storm system still a long ways off, the severe weather threat could still shift. So be sure to <a href="https://www.weather.gov/ict/">check back for updates</a>.

A cold front will bring some cooler temperatures to central and northeast Kansas on Saturday. Meanwhile, widespread highs in the 70s are anticipated for Sunday.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/3/1711749570148.jpeg" alt="Severe storms possible Monday. Image Courtesy NWS Wichita" />
 <figcaption>Severe storms possible Monday. Image Courtesy NWS Wichita</figcaption>
 </figure>Storms will be possible Monday afternoon and evening with locations east of Interstate 135 having the best chance to see storms. Large hail, damaging winds and a couple tornadoes will be possible with the stronger storms. With this storm system still a long ways off, the severe weather threat could still shift. So be sure to <a href="https://www.weather.gov/ict/">check back for updates</a>.<h2>Weekend forecast</h2><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/3/1711750345645.jpeg" alt="Image courtesy NWS Wichita" />
 <figcaption>Image courtesy NWS Wichita</figcaption>
 </figure>A cold front will bring some cooler temperatures to central and northeast Kansas on Saturday. Meanwhile, widespread highs in the 70s are anticipated for Sunday.

NWS Wichita — Easter forecast, severe storms possible Monday

<a href="mailto:melgares@ksu.edu" target="_blank">By PAT MELGARES </a>K-State Research and Extension news service&nbsp;&nbsp;

There is a common joke in Kansas – and many parts of the country – that goes something like this: If you don’t like the weather right now, just wait a few minutes.

Kansas State University meteorologist Chip Redmond agrees that weather in Kansas can change pretty quickly, so it’s important to know what to do in any situation in order to remain safe.

“It starts with preparedness,” said Redmond, who is also manager of the Kansas Mesonet. “We all should have a plan, including such things as just knowing how you get your weather alerts. You may get those from a weather radio or other sources, such as news media. And then, you need to talk with your family.”

“Practicing and having a plan saves lives,” Redmond said. “That is especially true in rural areas where appropriate shelter may be many miles away, a scenario many Kansans may be in.”

Redmond said having a “Go” bag -- something you can quickly grab and take to a shelter -- is important for most weather emergencies. The bag should include such items as medicines, extra clothes, radio, food, water and even something to keep kids entertained.

The best place to wait out severe weather “is always the lowest, central location in the home,” Redmond said. “If you only have a first floor – and not a basement – the ideal spot is a centrally located hallway or bathroom. Stay away from windows.”

If caught outside, “don’t go under trees during thunderstorms and don’t try to out-run tornadoes in your car,” Redmond said.

“A ditch, believe it or not, is a really safe place to go if you’re outside. Get down in the ditch; debris will typically blow over you. If you’re in a place without a ditch, get down on the ground as low as you can so you don’t have things hitting you. Just be aware if water is rising rapidly.”

For specific weather emergencies, Redmond shared additional tips:

● Get inside ● Avoid porches and overhangs.

“You can still get hit by lightning in those areas,” Redmond said.&nbsp; 

● Stay away from windows ● Stay off electronics that are hooked into a wall, including computer and cell phone ● Stay out of the shower, or other water sources.

“You don’t want to be operating anything that can carry electricity, whether it’s water or wire,” Redmond said. “If there’s a lightning strike away from your house, it’s going to travel through that highly conductive source.”

On average, Kansas has 95 tornadoes per year. There has been as few as 17 tornadoes reported in 2020 and 190 in 2008.

“This is tornado alley for a reason,” Redmond said. “We need to be prepared and be knowledgeable about what to do when a tornado warning is issued.”

The peak time for tornadoes in Kansas is April through June, often referred to as tornado season. But Redmond said tornadoes can occur any time of year and are solely dependent on atmospheric conditions – spring provides a classic clash of southern winds with Gulf moisture meeting north winds with colder, drier air from the Arctic areas. That is a recipe for strong storm systems supportive of highly sheared and unstable environments ideal for tornado development.

A basement or lower level of the house – away from windows -- is always the safest spot to wait out a tornado warning.

Redmond said Kansas gets approximately 600 wind damage reports annually. High winds – defined as those over 55 miles per hour – create problems not only by downing trees, but by making driving conditions and visibility more difficult.

As with tornadoes, the safest place during a wind storm is inside in a central location, away from windows.

In an average year, there are more than 1,000 reports of hail in Kansas. Severe hail is defined as 1 inch or more in diameter. “That seems fairly small until they’re coming at you at a high rate of speed from the sky,” Redmond said.

One inch hail can cause injury, damage to cars and even damage house siding and roofs.

“And it can threaten your life,” Redmond said. “If you get hit with multiple hail stones at 1 inch diameter, you’re going to know it. And if you get hit in the wrong place, it can kill you.”

It’s much easier to prepare for flooding while at home, Redmond said. “All you really need to know is your proximity to a flood plain,” he said. “To determine your risk, know the low-lying areas and where water runs.”

Away from home – and especially when driving – the risks due to flooding are much greater. On the road, the best advice is “turn around, don’t drown,” according to Redmond.

“When you see water over the road, and it may look crossable, water can move at high rates of speed,” he said. “Six inches of water can move a car effectively.”

In addition, the road under the water may not be intact and could damage or disable your vehicle, he said.

More information about staying safe during many weather emergencies is available online from the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.weather.gov/">National Weather Service</a>.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/2/1708958843251.jpeg" alt="lightning KSRE" />
 <figcaption>lightning KSRE</figcaption>
 </figure><a href="mailto:melgares@ksu.edu" target="_blank">By PAT MELGARES </a>K-State Research and Extension news service&nbsp;&nbsp;There is a common joke in Kansas – and many parts of the country – that goes something like this: If you don’t like the weather right now, just wait a few minutes.Kansas State University meteorologist Chip Redmond agrees that weather in Kansas can change pretty quickly, so it’s important to know what to do in any situation in order to remain safe.“It starts with preparedness,” said Redmond, who is also manager of the Kansas Mesonet. “We all should have a plan, including such things as just knowing how you get your weather alerts. You may get those from a weather radio or other sources, such as news media. And then, you need to talk with your family.”<div><iframe title="Libsyn Player" style="border: none" src="//html5-player.libsyn.com/embed/episode/id/30080013/height/90/theme/custom/thumbnail/yes/direction/forward/render-playlist/no/custom-color/512888/" height="90" width="100%" scrolling="no" allowfullscreen webkitallowfullscreen mozallowfullscreen oallowfullscreen msallowfullscreen></iframe></div>“Practicing and having a plan saves lives,” Redmond said. “That is especially true in rural areas where appropriate shelter may be many miles away, a scenario many Kansans may be in.”Redmond said having a “Go” bag -- something you can quickly grab and take to a shelter -- is important for most weather emergencies. The bag should include such items as medicines, extra clothes, radio, food, water and even something to keep kids entertained.The best place to wait out severe weather “is always the lowest, central location in the home,” Redmond said. “If you only have a first floor – and not a basement – the ideal spot is a centrally located hallway or bathroom. Stay away from windows.”If caught outside, “don’t go under trees during thunderstorms and don’t try to out-run tornadoes in your car,” Redmond said.“A ditch, believe it or not, is a really safe place to go if you’re outside. Get down in the ditch; debris will typically blow over you. If you’re in a place without a ditch, get down on the ground as low as you can so you don’t have things hitting you. Just be aware if water is rising rapidly.”For specific weather emergencies, Redmond shared additional tips:<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/2/1708958843251.jpeg" alt="lightning KSRE" />
 <figcaption>lightning KSRE</figcaption>
 </figure><h2>Lightning</h2>● Get inside ● Avoid porches and overhangs. “You can still get hit by lightning in those areas,” Redmond said.&nbsp; ● Stay away from windows ● Stay off electronics that are hooked into a wall, including computer and cell phone ● Stay out of the shower, or other water sources.“You don’t want to be operating anything that can carry electricity, whether it’s water or wire,” Redmond said. “If there’s a lightning strike away from your house, it’s going to travel through that highly conductive source.”<h2>Tornado</h2>On average, Kansas has 95 tornadoes per year. There has been as few as 17 tornadoes reported in 2020 and 190 in 2008.“This is tornado alley for a reason,” Redmond said. “We need to be prepared and be knowledgeable about what to do when a tornado warning is issued.”The peak time for tornadoes in Kansas is April through June, often referred to as tornado season. But Redmond said tornadoes can occur any time of year and are solely dependent on atmospheric conditions – spring provides a classic clash of southern winds with Gulf moisture meeting north winds with colder, drier air from the Arctic areas. That is a recipe for strong storm systems supportive of highly sheared and unstable environments ideal for tornado development.A basement or lower level of the house – away from windows -- is always the safest spot to wait out a tornado warning.<h2>High winds</h2>Redmond said Kansas gets approximately 600 wind damage reports annually. High winds – defined as those over 55 miles per hour – create problems not only by downing trees, but by making driving conditions and visibility more difficult.As with tornadoes, the safest place during a wind storm is inside in a central location, away from windows.<h2>Hail</h2>In an average year, there are more than 1,000 reports of hail in Kansas. Severe hail is defined as 1 inch or more in diameter. “That seems fairly small until they’re coming at you at a high rate of speed from the sky,” Redmond said.One inch hail can cause injury, damage to cars and even damage house siding and roofs.“And it can threaten your life,” Redmond said. “If you get hit with multiple hail stones at 1 inch diameter, you’re going to know it. And if you get hit in the wrong place, it can kill you.”<h2>Flooding</h2>It’s much easier to prepare for flooding while at home, Redmond said. “All you really need to know is your proximity to a flood plain,” he said. “To determine your risk, know the low-lying areas and where water runs.”Away from home – and especially when driving – the risks due to flooding are much greater. On the road, the best advice is “turn around, don’t drown,” according to Redmond.“When you see water over the road, and it may look crossable, water can move at high rates of speed,” he said. “Six inches of water can move a car effectively.”In addition, the road under the water may not be intact and could damage or disable your vehicle, he said.More information about staying safe during many weather emergencies is available online from the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.weather.gov/">National Weather Service</a>.

Severe weather looms; make plans now to stay safe, says K-State climatologist

Updated outlook which has changed the yellow slight risk to a green marginal risk over portions of north central Kansas.&nbsp; Scattered storms are expected to develop along a dryline late this afternoon over western and central KS and move northeast thru the evening. Quarter sized hail and 60-65 mph winds will be the primary threats with any severe storms that develop.

The National Weather Service office has issued guidance due to gusty winds.

A High Wind Warning is in effect from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. on Sunday with south winds 35 to 45 mph with gusts up to 60 mph expected.&nbsp;

A Wind Advisory is in effect from 7 p.m. Sunday to 10 a.m. Monday, with south winds 25 to 35 mph with gusts up to 50 mph expected.

Damaging winds will blow down trees and power lines. Widespread power outages are expected. Travel will be difficult, especially for high profile vehicles.

People should avoid being outside in wooded areas and around trees and branches. If possible, remain in the lower levels of your home during the windstorm, and avoid windows. Use caution if you must drive.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/3/1711292347677.jpeg" alt="Image Courtesy NWS-Wichita" />
 <figcaption>Image Courtesy NWS-Wichita</figcaption>
 </figure>Updated outlook which has changed the yellow slight risk to a green marginal risk over portions of north central Kansas.&nbsp; Scattered storms are expected to develop along a dryline late this afternoon over western and central KS and move northeast thru the evening. Quarter sized hail and 60-65 mph winds will be the primary threats with any severe storms that develop. The National Weather Service office has issued guidance due to gusty winds.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/3/1711213725613.jpeg" alt="Gold is High Wind Warning. Tan is Wind Advisory. Bronze is High Wind Watch." />
 <figcaption>Gold is High Wind Warning. Tan is Wind Advisory. Bronze is High Wind Watch.</figcaption>
 </figure>A High Wind Warning is in effect from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. on Sunday with south winds 35 to 45 mph with gusts up to 60 mph expected.&nbsp;A Wind Advisory is in effect from 7 p.m. Sunday to 10 a.m. Monday, with south winds 25 to 35 mph with gusts up to 50 mph expected.Damaging winds will blow down trees and power lines. Widespread power outages are expected. Travel will be difficult, especially for high profile vehicles.People should avoid being outside in wooded areas and around trees and branches. If possible, remain in the lower levels of your home during the windstorm, and avoid windows. Use caution if you must drive.

NWS-Wichita: Severe storms possible

Warmer weather arrives today, Tuesday, with rain chances increasing late Wednesday through early Thursday over southern Kansas.&nbsp;

Despite the warmer temperatures, remember that we remain susceptible to freezing temperatures well into April, and on rare years even into May. A heads up for those with gardening and planting interests. Below shows the typical last spring freeze date.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/3/1710864226143.jpeg" alt="Image Courtesy NWS-Wichita" />
 <figcaption>Image Courtesy NWS-Wichita</figcaption>
 </figure>NWS-WichitaWarmer weather arrives today, Tuesday, with rain chances increasing late Wednesday through early Thursday over southern Kansas.&nbsp;Despite the warmer temperatures, remember that we remain susceptible to freezing temperatures well into April, and on rare years even into May. A heads up for those with gardening and planting interests. Below shows the typical last spring freeze date.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/3/1710864061192.jpeg" alt="Image Courtesy NWS-Wichita" />
 <figcaption>Image Courtesy NWS-Wichita</figcaption>
 </figure>

NWS-Wichita four day weather forecast, last spring freeze date

After thunderstorms and a few tornadoes struck the central and northeast parts of Kansas, mild weather is expected for most residents over the weekend.

The National Weather Service Topeka forecasted calmer weather for the rest of the week and weekend. 

Northern Kansas has a chance for more rain today, but forecasters suspect sunshine to return soon alongside slightly cooler temperatures in the mid-50s to mid-60s.

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<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/3/1710431156444.jpeg" alt="Calmer weather is expected for the rest of this week and this weekend. Graphic courtesy National Weather Service Topeka." />
 <figcaption>Calmer weather is expected for the rest of this week and this weekend. Graphic courtesy National Weather Service Topeka.</figcaption>
 </figure>By SALINA POSTAfter thunderstorms and a few tornadoes struck the central and northeast parts of Kansas, mild weather is expected for most residents over the weekend.The National Weather Service Topeka forecasted calmer weather for the rest of the week and weekend. Northern Kansas has a chance for more rain today, but forecasters suspect sunshine to return soon alongside slightly cooler temperatures in the mid-50s to mid-60s.READ MORE:&nbsp;<a href="https://salinapost.com/posts/1a468272-9201-48a3-92d0-0d0ed0cf7f32">Storm carrying tornadoes, massive hail hits parts of Kansas and Missouri</a>

Three-Day weather forecast — sunshine expected through the weekend

UPDATED at 10:12 a.m., Wednesday, March 13, 2024

A significant weather system is set to develop around Salina today, which could bring strong winds, large hail and even a tornado.

Yesterday, the Wichita National Weather Service reported that some thunderstorms and rain would likely reach Salina. Still, with some updated models from the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) Storm Prediction Center, meteorologists and storm chasers are on high alert for today's system.

According to Wichita NWS Meteorologist Mickey McGuire, storms may develop along a warm front along the state's central region. Once it reaches Salina, it will likely intensify and travel across the eastern half of Kansas.

"I think after 4 p.m., we will see increasing chances for storms to develop along that warm front as we progress through the evening hours," McGuire said. "[Then the storms will] move north and east, so that puts the best chance for severe thunderstorms across northeast Kansas."

"Any location along that warm front will have a chance of seeing severe storms, large hail, damaging winds, and tornadoes, which will also be possible with any storms that develop along that front."

With the looming potential for severe weather, McGuire encouraged residents to alter outdoor activities or plans and be aware of impending dangerous conditions.

Meteorologists at the Wichita NWS also advise that residents have two or more ways to receive weather information, such as a phone, television or weather radio, to stay safe.

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Multiple storm systems will move through the state late tonight and tomorrow, with tomorrow bringing chances of damaging winds and hail.

According to the Wichita National Weather Service, far eastern Kansas may get a few showers this evening, and more of the east half of the state will see severe weather tomorrow.

"We'll see another system that kind of moves in right on the heels of this system tomorrow," said Wichita NWS Meteorologist Mickey McGuire. I think tomorrow's storm brings a little bit better chance of severe storms."

McGuire said although the systems will move through the state, many weather predictions show low probabilities for severe weather or widespread rain showers.

This doesn't rule out the threat of large hail, 60-mph wind gusts or tornadoes for this system.

"I think the main threat would be the potential for some large hail, maybe damaging winds with any severe storm that does develop," McGuire said.

McGuire encourages residents to make alternate plans for outdoor activities, especially for those in northern and northeast Kansas where there are greater chances for severe weather.

READ MORE:&nbsp;<a href="https://salinapost.com/posts/a006ac3d-4b97-455f-aaba-20b26f602339">AIM Center of Excellence celebrates first program graduation</a>

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/3/1710342808235.jpeg" alt="There is a conditional risk for severe storms late this afternoon through early tonight across central and eastern Kansas. The main threats will be large hail to around 2 inches in diameter and wind gusts to 65 mph. A tornado will also be possible. Graphic courtesy Wichita National Weather Service" />
 <figcaption>There is a conditional risk for severe storms late this afternoon through early tonight across central and eastern Kansas. The main threats will be large hail to around 2 inches in diameter and wind gusts to 65 mph. A tornado will also be possible. Graphic courtesy Wichita National Weather Service</figcaption>
 </figure>UPDATED at 10:12 a.m., Wednesday, March 13, 2024By OLIVIA BERGMEIER Salina PostA significant weather system is set to develop around Salina today, which could bring strong winds, large hail and even a tornado.Yesterday, the Wichita National Weather Service reported that some thunderstorms and rain would likely reach Salina. Still, with some updated models from the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) Storm Prediction Center, meteorologists and storm chasers are on high alert for today's system.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/3/1710342874734.jpeg" alt="Severe weather prediction, Wednesday, March 13, 2024. Graphic courtesy NOAA/NWS Storm Prediction Center" />
 <figcaption>Severe weather prediction, Wednesday, March 13, 2024. Graphic courtesy NOAA/NWS Storm Prediction Center</figcaption>
 </figure>According to Wichita NWS Meteorologist Mickey McGuire, storms may develop along a warm front along the state's central region. Once it reaches Salina, it will likely intensify and travel across the eastern half of Kansas."I think after 4 p.m., we will see increasing chances for storms to develop along that warm front as we progress through the evening hours," McGuire said. "[Then the storms will] move north and east, so that puts the best chance for severe thunderstorms across northeast Kansas.""Any location along that warm front will have a chance of seeing severe storms, large hail, damaging winds, and tornadoes, which will also be possible with any storms that develop along that front."With the looming potential for severe weather, McGuire encouraged residents to alter outdoor activities or plans and be aware of impending dangerous conditions.Meteorologists at the Wichita NWS also advise that residents have two or more ways to receive weather information, such as a phone, television or weather radio, to stay safe.READ MORE:&nbsp;<a href="https://salinapost.com/posts/841d07ab-499c-4d86-a8d3-678b41ef13e4">EquiFest returns to Salina this week — a quick look at events and vendors</a><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/3/1710252943686.jpeg" alt="Severe storms are possible from 4 to 11 p.m. on Wednesday. The best chances will remain across northern and northeast Kansas with lower chances east of Interstate-135. Graphic courtesy Wichita National Weather Service" />
 <figcaption>Severe storms are possible from 4 to 11 p.m. on Wednesday. The best chances will remain across northern and northeast Kansas with lower chances east of Interstate-135. Graphic courtesy Wichita National Weather Service</figcaption>
 </figure>By OLIVIA BERGMEIER Salina PostMultiple storm systems will move through the state late tonight and tomorrow, with tomorrow bringing chances of damaging winds and hail.According to the Wichita National Weather Service, far eastern Kansas may get a few showers this evening, and more of the east half of the state will see severe weather tomorrow."We'll see another system that kind of moves in right on the heels of this system tomorrow," said Wichita NWS Meteorologist Mickey McGuire. I think tomorrow's storm brings a little bit better chance of severe storms."McGuire said although the systems will move through the state, many weather predictions show low probabilities for severe weather or widespread rain showers.This doesn't rule out the threat of large hail, 60-mph wind gusts or tornadoes for this system."I think the main threat would be the potential for some large hail, maybe damaging winds with any severe storm that does develop," McGuire said.McGuire encourages residents to make alternate plans for outdoor activities, especially for those in northern and northeast Kansas where there are greater chances for severe weather.READ MORE:&nbsp;<a href="https://salinapost.com/posts/a006ac3d-4b97-455f-aaba-20b26f602339">AIM Center of Excellence celebrates first program graduation</a>

UPDATED: Severe weather moving into Kansas, Salina at front of dangerous system

Most Kansans understand that March usually brings spring closer to the end of the month, but with record-setting warm temperatures in February, spring has arrived for most residents.

Climatologists in and around Kansas also agree that this year is different for most of the country, with the <a href="https://www.weather.gov/fwd/basics">El Niño-Southern Oscillation</a>, or ENSO, cycle transitioning throughout spring and into summer.

The ENSO cycle has two phases that impact sea surface temperatures in the Pacific Ocean — El Niño, the ENSO warm phase, and La Niña, the ENSO cold phase.&nbsp;

The cycle transitioned from a three-year intense La Niña phase into a robust El Niño late last year, but climatologists see a transition to a neutral phase into a La Niña for the summer.

"This winter played out like a classic El Niño. We were much above normal [temperatures] and had above-normal precipitation—that's the hallmark of El Niño," said K-State Research and Extension Assistant State Climatologist Matthew Sittel. The problem this time of year is that the signal is less obvious."

<a href="https://salinapost.com/posts/35349d6a-eaa2-422b-976d-f0587f19c3bc">Salina broke an 1896 record on Feb. 26</a>, with the Salina Regional Airport reporting 78 degrees in the afternoon. The drought also improved, with many areas of western Kansas seeing soaking rainfall and inches of snow throughout the 2023-2024 winter.

ENSO cycles impact Kansas the most in winter, so as spring rolls into summer and El Niño switches to neutral and later to La Niña, its effects will not be as noticeable.

LISTEN: <a href="https://salinapost.com/posts/2635c9ac-0165-4c8c-8ad1-29a61b4acb62">🎙King in the Community: BSL and sign code, Salina City Manager Mike Schrage</a>

As the cycle transitions through the front half of 2024, Kansas weather will still see some impacts, particularly during the severe weather season.

"Coming out of El Niño, going into neutral, especially heading into severe weather season, it can create some uncertainty," said High Plains Regional Climate Center Climatologist Gannon Rush. "I looked up some literature about scenarios like this where it's transitioning from one to the neutral back to the other, and it did hint toward a not stronger, but more active severe season, particularly for hail and tornadoes."&nbsp;

Though past years with similar conditions saw more intense storm seasons, more tornadoes and hail are never guaranteed.

Wichita <a href="https://www.weather.gov/">National Weather Service</a>, or NWS, Meteorologist Robb Lawson said Kansas will see severe weather regardless of the ENSO cycle. Still, while the La Niña cycle held in the Pacific, Kansas saw a below-normal rate of tornadoes in the last several years.

"Some areas of the country get more active in a given year, and it just moves around," Lawson said. "Eventually, it will return to where we're going to be above normal for tornadoes. It's been relatively quiet for the last several years, but eventually, it will change, and we don't know when."

Meteorologists focus primarily on short weather outlooks, air moisture levels, wind speeds, and atmospheric instability. These factors impact weather forecasts and change regularly in the days leading up to a significant weather event.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/3/1709761322589.jpeg" alt="The seasonal precipitation outlook from the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, or NOAA, for March, April and May. Graphic courtesy NOAA Climate Prediction Center" />
 <figcaption>The seasonal precipitation outlook from the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, or NOAA, for March, April and May. Graphic courtesy NOAA Climate Prediction Center</figcaption>
 </figure>By OLIVIA BERGMEIER Salina PostMost Kansans understand that March usually brings spring closer to the end of the month, but with record-setting warm temperatures in February, spring has arrived for most residents.Climatologists in and around Kansas also agree that this year is different for most of the country, with the <a href="https://www.weather.gov/fwd/basics">El Niño-Southern Oscillation</a>, or ENSO, cycle transitioning throughout spring and into summer.The ENSO cycle has two phases that impact sea surface temperatures in the Pacific Ocean — El Niño, the ENSO warm phase, and La Niña, the ENSO cold phase.&nbsp;The cycle transitioned from a three-year intense La Niña phase into a robust El Niño late last year, but climatologists see a transition to a neutral phase into a La Niña for the summer."This winter played out like a classic El Niño. We were much above normal [temperatures] and had above-normal precipitation—that's the hallmark of El Niño," said K-State Research and Extension Assistant State Climatologist Matthew Sittel. The problem this time of year is that the signal is less obvious."<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/3/1709761419055.png" alt="The Kansas Drought monitor from February 27, 2024. Graphic courtesy U.S. Drought Monitor" />
 <figcaption>The Kansas Drought monitor from February 27, 2024. Graphic courtesy U.S. Drought Monitor</figcaption>
 </figure><a href="https://salinapost.com/posts/35349d6a-eaa2-422b-976d-f0587f19c3bc">Salina broke an 1896 record on Feb. 26</a>, with the Salina Regional Airport reporting 78 degrees in the afternoon. The drought also improved, with many areas of western Kansas seeing soaking rainfall and inches of snow throughout the 2023-2024 winter.ENSO cycles impact Kansas the most in winter, so as spring rolls into summer and El Niño switches to neutral and later to La Niña, its effects will not be as noticeable.LISTEN: <a href="https://salinapost.com/posts/2635c9ac-0165-4c8c-8ad1-29a61b4acb62">🎙King in the Community: BSL and sign code, Salina City Manager Mike Schrage</a>As the cycle transitions through the front half of 2024, Kansas weather will still see some impacts, particularly during the severe weather season."Coming out of El Niño, going into neutral, especially heading into severe weather season, it can create some uncertainty," said High Plains Regional Climate Center Climatologist Gannon Rush. "I looked up some literature about scenarios like this where it's transitioning from one to the neutral back to the other, and it did hint toward a not stronger, but more active severe season, particularly for hail and tornadoes."&nbsp;Though past years with similar conditions saw more intense storm seasons, more tornadoes and hail are never guaranteed.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/3/1709761594721.jpeg" alt="The seasonal temperature outlook from the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, or NOAA, for March, April and May.&nbsp;Graphic courtesy NOAA Climate Prediction Center" />
 <figcaption>The seasonal temperature outlook from the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, or NOAA, for March, April and May.&nbsp;Graphic courtesy NOAA Climate Prediction Center</figcaption>
 </figure>Wichita <a href="https://www.weather.gov/">National Weather Service</a>, or NWS, Meteorologist Robb Lawson said Kansas will see severe weather regardless of the ENSO cycle. Still, while the La Niña cycle held in the Pacific, Kansas saw a below-normal rate of tornadoes in the last several years."Some areas of the country get more active in a given year, and it just moves around," Lawson said. "Eventually, it will return to where we're going to be above normal for tornadoes. It's been relatively quiet for the last several years, but eventually, it will change, and we don't know when."Meteorologists focus primarily on short weather outlooks, air moisture levels, wind speeds, and atmospheric instability. These factors impact weather forecasts and change regularly in the days leading up to a significant weather event.READ MORE: <a href="https://salinapost.com/posts/09dc28b7-e3f5-48b7-a7ce-b6180532097a">Storm Fury on the Plains presents critical storm safety information</a><h2>Beyond severe weather</h2>Rush said many climate predictions see chances for above-normal precipitation in Kansas for the beginning of spring from March to early or mid-April.However, late spring and early summer are less promising for precipitation in the state. Many climate models show a toss-up in the early summertime for rainfall, and when La Niña takes over, it will likely turn dry again for the later half of the year."There's not a strong signal on how they affect temperature and precipitation during the summer," Rush said. "As we've seen in the past, the triple dip in La Niña was very dry. The drought was very prevalent in Kansas, specifically in central and western Kansas, and this year it's sort of signaling that kind of return of a pattern which is probably not what people want to hear."<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/3/1709761706136.png" alt="The Spring Leaf Index is based on heat accumulation and may have less relevance in water-limited systems like California and the Southwest. Precipitation may play a larger role in the phenology of plants in these areas. Graphic courtesy National Phenology Network " />
 <figcaption>The Spring Leaf Index is based on heat accumulation and may have less relevance in water-limited systems like California and the Southwest. Precipitation may play a larger role in the phenology of plants in these areas. Graphic courtesy National Phenology Network </figcaption>
 </figure>The recent conditions also have led to an early spring for many states, with the <a href="https://www.usanpn.org/data/maps/spring">National Phenology Network</a> reporting the earliest spring on record for parts of northern Kansas.Climatologists from around the globe work to gather data for varying models, but none are entirely accurate in predictions.&nbsp;Lawson said weather on all scales is unpredictable, but historical data and taking a critical look at weather conditions allow residents to better prepare for dangerous weather situations.