The National Weather Service has issued a wind advisory for Clay, Cloud, Dickinson, McPherson, Ottawa, Republic, and Saline counties from 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. Thursday.

Northwest winds at 25 to 35 mph with gusts up to 50 mph are expected in Saline and McPherson counties, and west and northwest winds at 20 to 30 mph with gusts to 45 mph are expected in Clay, Cloud, Dickinson, Ottawa, and Republic counties.

Additionally, NWS has issued a wind advisory for Lincoln and Ellsworth counties effective 5 a.m.-7 p.m. Thursday. Northwest winds at 25 to 35 mph with gusts up to 50 mph are expected in this area as well.

In both advisories, the NWS notes:

“Any unsecured outdoor items, such as patio furniture, are likely to be blown around. High profile vehicles will have difficulty being driven on north/south oriented roads and highways. Use extra caution. Some minor structural damage to out buildings is also possible.”

The strong winds will support marginally very high grassland fire danger across far southeast Kansas Thursday.

Widespread rain will impact the region Saturday through early Sunday. The rain may mix with light snow at times, but little if any snow accumulations is expected.

Thunderstorm chances will return to the forecast by Tuesday late afternoon and evening. While organized severe weather is not expected, a few strong storms are possible.