Kansas City, MO – Drivers across northern Kansas and northwest Missouri could face sudden severe storms after 7 p.m. tonight, with damaging wind gusts and large hail developing during the evening hours before pushing toward the Kansas City metro.
Storms are expected to rapidly intensify as they move southeast, reaching areas along and north of Interstate 70 later tonight. The greatest concern centers on wind gusts up to 60 mph and pockets of large hail, both capable of damaging vehicles and downing small tree limbs in a short window of time.
According to the National Weather Service in Kansas City, storms will first develop across northern Kansas and southeast Nebraska before expanding into northwest Missouri this evening. As the system tracks south, it is expected to gradually weaken before reaching areas farther along the I-70 corridor by early Friday morning, though steady rain could still impact the morning commute.
Communities including St. Joseph, Atchison, and areas north of Kansas City may see the strongest storms early tonight, with conditions becoming more widespread but less intense as they shift toward cities like Independence, Lee’s Summit, and Columbia overnight.
While the severe threat remains limited in duration, multiple rounds of rain are expected to continue Friday through the weekend. Minor river flooding may develop in low-lying areas if rainfall totals begin to stack up.
Residents are urged to secure loose outdoor items and remain alert for rapidly changing conditions this evening. If a warning is issued, move indoors immediately and avoid travel during periods of heavy rain or strong wind.
Storm chances continue into early next week, with another round of stronger storms possible between Monday night and Wednesday.
