Missouri — Cold air grips Kansas City early this morning. Breath hangs in the air, and temperatures sit near 29 degrees under a gray sky. The chill feels sharper with a steady breeze, pushing wind chills into the low 20s.
Roads remain mostly dry, but cold pavement creates a frost risk on bridges and overpasses. Drivers should stay alert during the early commute, especially in shaded areas. For now, winter still has the upper hand.
Skies brighten as the day goes on. Sunshine returns this afternoon, and highs climb toward the upper 30s. It feels brisk but manageable, especially with lighter winds by evening. Clear skies tonight allow temperatures to dip again, keeping the freeze threat in place.
Sunday brings a noticeable shift. Clouds linger early, then thin out through the afternoon. Temperatures rise into the upper 40s, a welcome break after several cold mornings. Winds turn southerly, signaling bigger changes ahead.
By Monday, the pattern flips fast. Meteorologists are tracking a strong warming trend across the central Plains. Kansas City reaches near 60 degrees under mostly sunny skies. Jackets feel optional by afternoon, a dramatic turnaround for early January 2026.
Travel conditions improve steadily into Monday. Melting frost may leave damp spots early, but widespread issues are not expected. Keep an eye out near rivers and low-lying roads where moisture lingers.
Tuesday stays mild with sunshine and highs around 60 again. Rain chances return later in the week, but winter weather remains quiet for now.
This is classic Midwest whiplash. Cold starts, fast warmups, and quick transitions define the first full week of the new year.
How big was the temperature swing where you live today?
Five-Day Outlook: Kansas City, Missouri
- Today: Mostly sunny, cold morning, high near 39
- Sunday: Clearing skies, milder, high near 48
- Monday: Mostly sunny and warm, high near 60
- Tuesday: Sunny, high near 60
- Wednesday: Mostly sunny, warmer, high near 63
