Kansas City, Missouri – Temperatures will surge into the upper 80s and low 90s by Thursday afternoon, delivering a summerlike stretch of heat across Oklahoma, Kansas, and Missouri before a significant high wind event develops late in the period.
According to the National Weather Service and NOAA’s Climate Prediction Center, the region is in a 70 to 80 percent probability zone for above-normal temperatures from April 16 through April 20. A strong heat dome will dominate early, allowing temperatures to climb rapidly under dry air and full sunshine.
In Kansas City and across western Missouri, highs are expected to reach 88 to 92°F between 2 p.m. and 6 p.m., with overnight lows in the mid to upper 60s. Across Kansas, including Wichita and Topeka, similar conditions will develop with highs near 90°F, while Oklahoma City will peak between 90 and 93°F along the I-35 corridor.
Conditions will shift beginning April 18 as a powerful Plains storm system develops. Wind gusts are expected to increase to 35 to 45 mph across all three states, including along I-35, I-44, and I-70. These winds could create hazardous travel for high-profile vehicles and significantly increase wildfire spread risk in dry, open areas.
Western Kansas and Oklahoma, along with parts of northern Missouri, may also see blowing dust reduce visibility on open highways. By late in the period, thunderstorms could begin to develop, especially from Kansas into Missouri, bringing brief heavy rain and stronger wind gusts.
Residents should secure loose outdoor items, avoid outdoor burning, and remain alert for rapidly changing conditions. Drivers should prepare for strong crosswinds, particularly on north-south routes.
The hottest conditions are expected through April 18, followed by a transition to a wind-driven and more active weather pattern through April 22. Additional advisories are likely as this system strengthens across the central Plains.
