Kansas City, Missouri – An arctic air mass is gripping the Kansas City region Monday morning, producing dangerously cold wind chills near -20 degrees, according to the National Weather Service.
A Cold Weather Advisory remains in effect through 9 a.m. Monday, as air temperatures in the single digits and teens combine with increasing winds to keep wind chill values between -15 and -25 degrees across much of the metro area. The coldest conditions are expected between 6 a.m. and mid-morning.
Forecasters say sub-freezing temperatures will persist throughout the day, with wind chills remaining in the single digits through the afternoon, despite a modest increase in actual air temperatures. Northwest winds are expected to remain breezy, limiting any noticeable warmup.
The prolonged cold pattern is expected to continue through much of the week, with below-normal temperatures forecast across Missouri and eastern Kansas. Officials warn that frostbite can occur on exposed skin in as little as 30 minutes during the coldest periods.
Residents are urged to dress in multiple layers, limit time outdoors, and bring pets indoors. Drivers should also be cautious early Monday, as lingering ice and snow combined with the cold may create slick conditions on untreated roads.
The National Weather Service emphasizes that this is a multi-day cold event, and residents should prepare for continued winter hazards beyond Monday.
