Kansas City, Mo. – Strong thunderstorms capable of damaging winds and torrential rainfall will remain a concern across central and eastern Missouri Friday, with the greatest severe weather threat developing during the afternoon.
According to the National Weather Service in Kansas City, showers and thunderstorms will continue through the late morning, producing locally heavy rainfall and occasional wind gusts exceeding 40 mph. Additional storms are expected to develop mainly east of Interstate 35 between 1 p.m. and 4 p.m., where conditions will become favorable for stronger thunderstorms.
Forecasters say the most intense storms could produce wind gusts of 60 to 70 mph, along with quarter- to half-dollar-size hail. A brief tornado also cannot be ruled out, with the conditional threat highest east of the Highway 63 corridor. Locally heavy rainfall may lead to ponding on roads and isolated flooding in low-lying or poor-drainage areas.
Communities including Kansas City, Warrensburg, Sedalia, Columbia, Jefferson City, Boonville, Moberly and Macon should monitor weather conditions closely through the afternoon. Drivers should be prepared for rapidly changing conditions, including reduced visibility during heavy rain and debris on roadways if damaging winds occur.
Residents are encouraged to secure loose outdoor objects, postpone outdoor activities during the afternoon if possible, and have multiple ways to receive weather warnings. If a Severe Thunderstorm Warning or Tornado Warning is issued, move indoors immediately and stay away from windows.
The strongest storms are expected to shift east Friday evening, but additional watches or warnings may be issued if thunderstorms intensify or organize into a stronger line.
