Kansas City, Missouri – Large hail capable of denting vehicles could begin falling across the Kansas City metro as early as 1 p.m. Friday, marking the start of a dangerous severe weather window through the evening.
According to the National Weather Service in Kansas City, storms will rapidly develop during the early to mid-afternoon and intensify through 9 p.m. Initial supercells are expected to produce hail up to 2 inches in diameter, with isolated tornadoes possible if storms remain discrete across eastern Kansas and western Missouri.
By late afternoon into the evening, storms are expected to merge into clusters or lines, shifting the primary threat to damaging winds exceeding 70 mph. This transition could impact major corridors including I-70, I-35, and U.S. 50, with the greatest severe potential stretching from Topeka through Kansas City to Columbia.
Localized flooding is also a concern, especially south of U.S. 50, where repeated storms could lead to rapid water rises on roads and low-lying areas. A flood watch is in effect for parts of the region through Friday evening.
Residents should secure outdoor items, move vehicles under cover, and ensure alerts are enabled. The severe threat will continue through tonight, with additional warnings likely as storms evolve.
