Severe storms swept through the Wichita area early Monday, June 17, bringing damaging winds, hail, and flash flooding across much of central Kansas. The National Weather Service reported a 101-mph wind gust recorded at 4:22 a.m. at Dwight D. Eisenhower National Airport — a gust strong enough to cause extensive damage across the region.
Cars, trees, and buildings sustained damage, and more than 45,000 homes and businesses lost power due to the storm, according to Evergy, the area’s primary electrical utility. The company also warned of additional rounds of severe storms expected later in the afternoon and evening, urging residents to stay alert.
High winds were the most dangerous element of the early-morning storm system, which stretched across western and central Kansas. Tescott in north-central Kansas recorded wind speeds of 91 mph, while gusts of 89 mph and 80 mph were reported near Hutchinson and McPherson, respectively.
In addition to strong winds, the storm brought large hail to parts of northwest and central Kansas. Flash flooding was also reported in the McPherson and Wichita areas, though no tornadoes had been confirmed as of Monday morning.
The National Weather Service has issued a “moderate” risk warning — more serious than “enhanced” — for much of the state, including cities such as Wichita, Hutchinson, Newton, Great Bend, and McPherson.
Forecasters say thunderstorms are likely to redevelop along a slow-moving front later in the day, potentially bringing hail over 2 inches in diameter, damaging winds exceeding 70 mph, flash flooding, and a few isolated tornadoes.
Residents are advised to monitor local alerts and prepare for rapidly changing weather conditions as the system continues to move through Kansas.
