Severe Storms Will Impact Kansas on Tuesday
The National Weather Service warns of potential hail and damaging winds for northeast and east-central Kansas this week.
Updated on Oct. 12, 2026 in Forecasts
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Severe thunderstorms are expected to develop across northeast and east-central Kansas on Tuesday, October 13. These storms will likely bring heavy rainfall that creates a persistent flooding risk through Wednesday and Thursday.
Why it matters
The incoming cold front poses significant risks for damaging wind gusts and large hail, which may threaten infrastructure and safety in the region. Residents should prepare for localized flooding as heavy rainfall rates occur alongside existing reservoir operations.
The National Weather Service has issued a Level 2 of 5 risk for severe thunderstorms, with potential wind gusts of 60 to 70 mph and hail between 1 and 1.5 inches. Rainfall rates could reach 1 to 2 inches per hour throughout the impacted area.
The players
National Weather Service
This federal agency is responsible for providing weather forecasts and storm warnings to protect life and property.
Tuttle Creek Reservoir
This facility is a major flood control project managed to regulate water levels and mitigate downstream flooding.
The details
Showers and thunderstorms are forecasted to develop along an approaching cold front on Tuesday afternoon. The resulting heavy precipitation may test regional water management, with Tuttle Creek Reservoir currently utilizing 13% of its flood storage capacity at an elevation of 1,092.44 feet.
Timeline
October 12, 2026, 8 a.m.: Tuttle Creek Reservoir metrics were recorded.
October 13, 2026: Severe storms will impact the region.
October 14, 2026: Persistent flooding risk begins.
October 15, 2026: Flooding risk continues through the morning.
Seasonal Patterns
The current forecast uses the standard Level 2 of 5 risk designation to categorize the expected storm severity. These weather patterns are consistent with typical fall transitions where cold fronts moving across the plains frequently trigger significant localized storm activity.
Residents should secure outdoor items that could be damaged by 70 mph wind gusts and prepare for potential drainage issues. Stay tuned to local alerts, as heavy rainfall may cause localized flooding that impacts travel on area roadways through Thursday morning.
The takeaway
Preparedness is essential as the cold front moves through, particularly for those in low-lying areas prone to flash flooding. Monitoring real-time updates from local authorities will help residents adjust travel and safety plans as the storm system evolves.
Further reading
Learn more about local conditions in our Kansas Forecasts.
Source note: This article includes information reported by News Radio KMAN.
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