Kansas City, Missouri – Heavy rain moving into western Missouri and eastern Kansas could trigger flooding across more than 60 counties by early Tuesday, with the greatest risk stretching from Kansas City to Kirksville through Wednesday morning.
According to the National Weather Service in Pleasant Hill, a Flood Watch is in effect from 7 a.m. Tuesday until 7 a.m. Wednesday, covering both urban centers and rural areas across the region. Forecasters warn that excessive rainfall may lead to dangerous runoff, rapidly rising creeks, and water-covered roads—particularly in low-lying areas and flood-prone neighborhoods.
In Missouri, the watch spans key counties including Jackson, Buchanan, Clay, Platte, Adair, and Macon, while Johnson, Wyandotte, Leavenworth, and Atchison are among those impacted in Kansas. Communities like St. Joseph, Columbia, Sedalia, and Chillicothe are urged to monitor local alerts. Interstate 70, U.S. 36, and rural roadways may become hazardous during overnight hours.
Residents are advised to avoid driving through high water, clear storm drains, and move valuables to higher ground. Emergency kits and charged phones are recommended in case of flash flooding or power outages.
The threat continues into early Wednesday, with more showers possible midweek. Additional alerts could follow as rain bands stall over the region.