Kansas City, Missouri – Temperatures will climb into the upper 80s and low 90s by Thursday afternoon, bringing a summerlike stretch of heat across Kansas and Missouri before a more active weather pattern develops.
According to the National Weather Service and NOAA’s Climate Prediction Center, both states are in a 70 to 80 percent probability zone for above-normal temperatures from April 16 through April 20. A broad heat dome over the central U.S. will limit rainfall early, allowing temperatures to steadily rise through the late week.
In Kansas City and along the I-70 corridor from Topeka to Columbia, highs are expected to reach 87 to 91°F between 2 p.m. and 6 p.m., with overnight lows holding in the mid to upper 60s. Dry air and increasing southwest winds will accelerate the drying of vegetation, raising wildfire risk in open fields and along roadways.
Wichita and south-central Kansas will see highs in the upper 80s to near 90°F, while Springfield and southern Missouri could reach the low 90s during peak heating. St. Louis will trend slightly cooler in the upper 80s but still well above seasonal averages.
The precipitation outlook shows a shift during this period, with near-normal early conditions transitioning to a 40 to 50 percent chance of above-normal rainfall between April 18 and April 22. This includes a corridor of heavier rain potential from Kansas City southeast toward the Ozarks and into central Missouri.
Residents should avoid outdoor burning, secure loose outdoor items due to increasing winds, and stay hydrated during peak heat. Drivers along I-35, I-44, and I-70 should be alert for sudden crosswinds, especially late in the period.
The most consistent heat is expected through April 19, followed by increasing storm chances into early next week. Additional advisories are likely as the pattern shifts from heat to potential heavy rainfall and gusty winds.
