Kansas City, Missouri – Strong to severe thunderstorms are expected to develop across parts of the Midwest and southern Plains Friday afternoon and continue overnight.
According to the National Weather Service Storm Prediction Center, a broad area from Kansas and Oklahoma into Missouri and Arkansas faces the potential for severe weather through Friday night.
Meteorologists say storms may begin developing late Friday afternoon across the Plains, spreading east into parts of the Midwest and lower Mississippi Valley during the evening and overnight hours.
The Storm Prediction Center indicates an Enhanced Risk (Level 3 of 5) for severe storms centered across parts of Kansas, Oklahoma, and Missouri, including communities near Kansas City, Wichita, and Joplin.
Areas farther east and north, including parts of Illinois, Iowa, Arkansas, and Texas, are under a Slight Risk (Level 2 of 5).
Forecasters warn that damaging wind gusts and very large hail will be the primary hazards, though tornadoes are also possible, including the potential for a few strong tornadoes if storms intensify.
Cities along major travel corridors such as Interstate 35, Interstate 44, and Interstate 70 could see severe thunderstorms during the late afternoon or overnight hours.
Drivers traveling Friday evening may encounter heavy rain, lightning, and sudden strong wind gusts, which could slow travel or create hazardous conditions.
Meteorologists emphasize that severe storms may continue through the overnight hours, making it important for residents to have multiple ways to receive weather warnings while sleeping.
Emergency officials recommend reviewing severe weather safety plans and ensuring alerts are enabled on mobile devices.
Students, evening commuters, and overnight travelers across the central United States could encounter rapidly changing weather conditions as the storm system moves through the region.
