Kansas City, MO – Overnight downpours are causing dangerous flash flooding in the Kansas City metro area, with warnings in effect for both Kansas and Missouri through 4:45 a.m. Thursday. Emergency responders are urging drivers to avoid flooded streets as water rises quickly across key roadways.
According to the National Weather Service in Pleasant Hill, Doppler radar shows between 1.5 and 2.5 inches of rain have already fallen in Johnson, Atchison, Leavenworth, Buchanan, and Platte counties, with another 1 to 2 inches possible before sunrise. The warning covers Kansas City, Leavenworth, Atchison, Platte City, and several smaller communities along creeks and low-lying streets.
Flooding is expected on highways, underpasses, and poorly drained neighborhoods. Key routes at risk include Highway 7, Interstate 435, and secondary roads near Tonganoxie, Dearborn, and Weston. Residents should move vehicles to higher ground, avoid walking or driving through flooded areas, and stay updated on alerts. Power outages and delays for morning commuters are likely if rain persists.
This event marks one of the heaviest summer rain episodes for the region in July. More advisories may follow if rain continues or streams rise further. Warnings remain in effect until at least 4:45 a.m.
