Kansas City, MO – Strong winds are expected to develop across parts of western and northern Missouri Thursday afternoon, prompting a Wind Advisory as gusts increase enough to cause travel difficulties and minor damage.
According to the National Weather Service in Kansas City/Pleasant Hill, a Wind Advisory will be in effect from noon to 6 p.m. CST Thursday for multiple counties north and east of the Kansas City metro area. West winds of 20 to 30 miles per hour are forecast, with gusts reaching up to 45 mph.
Counties included in the advisory are Carroll, Grundy, Linn (Missouri), Livingston, Mercer, Putnam, Sullivan, Johnson (Missouri), and Lafayette. Cities expected to be impacted include Carrollton, Chillicothe, Warrensburg, Lexington, Trenton, Brookfield, Concordia, and Higginsville.
Forecasters say gusty winds could blow around unsecured outdoor objects and cause small tree limbs to fall. A few isolated power outages are possible, particularly in areas with weakened trees or exposed power lines.
Drivers are urged to use caution Thursday afternoon, especially those operating high-profile vehicles such as trucks, vans, and vehicles pulling trailers. Strong crosswinds could make steering difficult, particularly on open highways and rural roads.
Residents are encouraged to secure loose items such as trash bins, patio furniture, and holiday decorations before winds increase. Those traveling during the advisory window should allow extra time and remain alert for debris on roadways.
Winds are expected to gradually weaken Thursday evening after the advisory expires, though breezy conditions may linger overnight.
The National Weather Service recommends monitoring updated forecasts and local alerts in case wind conditions change or additional advisories are issued.
