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 late-period transition to stormier conditions.
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 across the central Plains will suppress 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 combined with increasing southwest winds will accelerate vegetation drying, raising wildfire risk in open fields and rural areas.
Wichita and south-central Kansas will see highs in the upper 80s to near 90°F, while Springfield and the Missouri Ozarks could briefly reach the low 90s during peak heating. St. Joseph and northern Missouri will trend slightly cooler but still well above seasonal norms.
The precipitation outlook shows a shift during this period, with near-normal to slightly below-normal rainfall early transitioning to a 40 to 50 percent chance of above-normal precipitation between April 18 and April 22. Thunderstorm chances will increase across eastern Kansas into Missouri, with the potential for locally heavy rain and gusty winds.
Residents should avoid outdoor burning, secure loose outdoor items, and stay hydrated during peak heat. Drivers along I-35, I-44, and I-70 should be alert for sudden crosswinds and changing conditions late in the period.
The most consistent heat is expected through April 18, followed by increasing storm chances into early next week. Additional advisories are likely as the pattern shifts from dry heat to a more active weather setup.
