KANSAS CITY, MO – The cold cuts deep across Kansas City this Thursday morning as December’s Arctic air locks the metro in its grip. Frosted rooftops glisten under first light, and with temperatures near 17°F, the air feels sharp enough to sting. Despite clear skies today, the cold stretch won’t last quietly—meteorologists are tracking a late-week system that could bring a light rain-to-snow mix by Saturday night.
According to the National Weather Service in Pleasant Hill, daytime highs will hover in the upper 20s to lower 30s before edging slightly warmer Friday near 42°F. Winds stay light but steady, adding to the chill. By late Saturday, moisture from the south will meet lingering Arctic air, setting the stage for a 30% chance of rain changing to snow after midnight.
While only minor accumulation is expected—likely less than an inch—roads could turn slick, especially on bridges, ramps, and shaded stretches of I-70, I-35, and Route 50. Early risers Sunday may encounter icy patches before drier air returns later in the day.
Sunday remains cold, with highs near 29°F, followed by gradual warming early next week. The long-range pattern keeps the door open for additional winter precipitation across the central Plains as holiday travel ramps up mid-December.
Five-Day Outlook (Kansas City Region):
- Friday: High 42°F, partly cloudy and breezy.
- Saturday: High 40°F, chance of evening rain/snow mix.
- Sunday: High 29°F, mostly cloudy and cold.
- Monday: High 36°F, mostly sunny.
- Tuesday: High 46°F, dry and milder.
