BREAKING: Severe Thunderstorm Warning in Southeast Kansas – Allen, Wilson, and Woodson Counties

TheWkly Analysis

A Severe Thunderstorm Warning has been issued by the National Weather Service (NWS) Wichita KS for Allen, Wilson, and Woodson Counties in southeast Kansas, effective from 6:22 PM CST on February 13, 2026, until 7:15 PM CST the same day. This major storm system is expected to bring damaging winds up to 70 mph, large hail, frequent lightning, and possible brief tornadoes, posing immediate threats to life and property in these rural areas. Residents should take cover immediately as the storm could lead to flash flooding, power outages, and structural damage, with broader implications for regional transportation networks that connect to international trade routes. What It Means For You: • Immediate safety actions: Seek shelter in a sturdy building, preferably in a basement or an interior room away from windows, and avoid outdoor activities until the warning expires; if you're in a mobile home, evacuate to a safer structure immediately. • Impact on daily activities: Expect disruptions to local transportation, including road closures on major routes like U.S. Highway 169, potential school and business closures in affected counties, and delays in regional air traffic at nearby airports like Wichita Eisenhower National Airport. • What to prepare or stock: Gather essential supplies such as non-perishable food, water (at least one gallon per person per day), medications, flashlights, batteries, and important documents in a go-bag; also charge mobile devices and have a battery-powered radio for updates. • Expected conditions and timing: The peak danger, including strongest winds and hail, is anticipated between 6:30 PM and 7:00 PM CST, with conditions deteriorating rapidly; monitor for any extensions to the warning period. • Where to get alerts and weather updates: Tune into NOAA Weather Radio, the NWS Wichita KS website (weather.gov/wichita), or apps like the FEMA or NWS mobile apps for real-time alerts; follow local emergency management on social media for county-