Kansas City, Missouri – Strong to severe storms are expected to sweep across Missouri Friday night, bringing the threat of up to 4 inches of rain, damaging winds, and hail — raising the risk of flash flooding in low-lying and urban areas.
According to the National Weather Service in Kansas City, an initial round of storms could approach northwest Missouri late Thursday, with wind gusts reaching 40 to 60 mph near Maryville, Bethany, and St. Joseph. While this first wave may stay concentrated in the northern tier, a more organized and dangerous system is expected Friday evening into early Saturday.
Cities including Kansas City, Columbia, Chillicothe, Sedalia, and Jefferson City could experience severe weather, with hail around quarter-size, wind gusts over 60 mph, and heavy rainfall rates capable of producing localized flooding. Rainfall totals may reach 2 to 4 inches, especially in areas where storms repeat or stall.
Residents should avoid driving through flooded roads, secure outdoor furniture, and prepare for possible power outages or road closures. Emergency kits and fully charged phones are recommended ahead of Friday evening.
The flood and storm threat may linger into early Saturday, depending on how the Friday system evolves. Additional alerts are possible.
