WICHITA, Kansas — The Central Plains are expected to face a drier and variable winter under the influence of a developing La Niña, with Kansas and Nebraska seeing fewer snow events but several sharp cold fronts, according to meteorologists at the National Weather Service in Wichita.
Drier Pattern With Quick Cold Shots
Forecasters say the evolving La Niña will favor high-pressure ridging across the southern Plains, blocking Gulf moisture from pushing north. That setup will lead to limited snowfall but allow strong Arctic fronts to move through periodically, sending wind chills into the single digits.
“Residents should expect long stretches of mild, dry weather followed by brief but intense cold snaps,” meteorologists said. “It’s not shaping up to be a heavy snow year, but it will still bring challenges.”
The variable temperature swings could stress winter wheat crops and delay soil moisture recovery, particularly in western and central Kansas, where drought conditions persist.
Impact on Agriculture and Water Supplies
Ranchers and farmers are being advised to monitor stock ponds and water supplies as precipitation deficits may continue into early spring…