Missouri – Thunderstorms are already beginning to organize across the Kansas City metro, and conditions will turn increasingly active through the afternoon. Wet pavement and building clouds signal a day where travel could quickly become difficult, especially during heavier downpours.
According to the National Weather Service in Kansas City/Pleasant Hill, storm coverage will increase to between 90 and 100 percent this afternoon into tonight, with locally heavy rainfall and strong to severe storms possible. Total rainfall could reach 2 to 4 inches across the region by Saturday, raising concerns for flooding on roads, small streams, and low-lying areas.
Across Jackson, Clay, and Johnson counties, drivers should prepare for rapidly changing conditions. I-70, I-435, and I-35 may see pooling water and reduced visibility during intense rain bands. Some storms could also produce gusty winds and lightning, adding to travel hazards.
Storms continue into tonight before a brief lull early Thursday. Another round of showers and thunderstorms redevelops Friday afternoon into Saturday morning, reinforcing the flood risk as the ground becomes saturated.
While not every storm will be severe, the repeated rainfall is the bigger concern. Plan for delays, avoid flooded roadways, and monitor alerts closely. Conditions may deteriorate quickly after sunset as storms redevelop.
By Sunday, skies clear and calmer weather returns with sunshine and highs near the upper 50s. Looking ahead, warmer spring temperatures are expected to build back into the region next week.
If you’re traveling today, stay alert and give yourself extra time. Are you already seeing heavy rain or standing water in your area?
Five Day Forecast for Kansas City, Missouri:
Today: Thunderstorms likely, high near 62°F
Tonight: Storms continue, low near 58°F
Thursday: Showers likely, high near 73°F
Friday: Showers and storms, high near 76°F
Saturday: Chance of showers, high near 55°F
