By CRISTINA JANNEY Hays Post

The National Weather Service has issued a high wind watch for Hays, Ellis County and surrounding areas through Friday afternoon.

Other affected counties include Trego, Scott, Lane, Ness, Rush, Hamilton, Kearny, Finney, Hodgeman, Pawnee, Gray, Ford and Edwards counties.

Northwest winds are forecast to be 25 to 40 mph with gusts up to 60 mph possible.

Damaging winds could blow down trees and power lines. Widespread power outages are possible. Travel could be difficult,  especially for high-profile vehicles, according to the weather service.

The high for Friday in Hays is forecast to be 41 degrees with a cold front moving in, and the overnight low of 16 degrees, with a high of only 29 degrees on Saturday.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2026/1/1768496448585.png" alt="Forecast wind speeds. National Weather Service, Dodge City" />
 <figcaption>Forecast wind speeds. National Weather Service, Dodge City</figcaption>
 </figure>By CRISTINA JANNEY Hays PostThe National Weather Service has issued a high wind watch for Hays, Ellis County and surrounding areas through Friday afternoon.Other affected counties include Trego, Scott, Lane, Ness, Rush, Hamilton, Kearny, Finney, Hodgeman, Pawnee, Gray, Ford and Edwards counties.Northwest winds are forecast to be 25 to 40 mph with gusts up to 60 mph possible.Damaging winds could blow down trees and power lines. Widespread power outages are possible. Travel could be difficult, especially for high-profile vehicles, according to the weather service.The high for Friday in Hays is forecast to be 41 degrees with a cold front moving in, and the overnight low of 16 degrees, with a high of only 29 degrees on Saturday.

High wind watch in effect through Friday afternoon