SOUTHEAST KANSAS — Southeast Kansas and surrounding areas are the primary zone to watch for tornado potential on Tuesday, May 12, 2026, with a Level 1 risk carrying a 2 percent tornado probability across the highlighted green zone. The setup is not expected to be a major severe weather outbreak, but enough atmospheric ingredients are in place for storms to briefly spin up and produce a quick tornado. Areas from Wichita and Emporia northward through Topeka and into the Kansas City corridor all fall within the outlined threat zone.
Level 1 at 2 Percent Tornado Probability Covers Southeast Kansas Into Missouri Border
The green-shaded outlook zone encompasses a significant portion of southeast Kansas, stretching from near Wichita and Hutchinson in the west through Emporia, Topeka, and up toward Kansas City along the Missouri state line. The 2 percent tornado probability reflects a low-end but real threat that deserves attention from anyone living or traveling through this corridor on Tuesday…