Barton and Rice Counties, Kansas — A severe thunderstorm warning is in effect for southeastern Barton County and western Rice County until 9:15 PM CDT Thursday.

What is happening: At 8:11 PM CDT, a severe thunderstorm sat over Ellinwood and was moving east at 15 mph. The storm is producing half dollar size hail, and radar indicates the threat continues as it tracks east across the warned area.

Local impacts: Hail of that size can damage vehicles and other property left outdoors. Torrential rainfall is falling with this storm and could lead to flash flooding on roads and in low-lying spots. Communities in the path include Great Bend, Ellinwood, Chase, Bushton, Alden, Raymond, Frederick, Cheyenne Bottoms, and Silica.

What to do:

- Move to an interior room on the lowest floor of a building.

- Stay away from windows until the storm passes.

- Never drive through a flooded roadway. Turn around and find another route.

Source: National Weather Service, Wichita, October 29, 2026.