Missouri and eastern Kansas ease into the morning under crisp air and calm skies, but changes are already lining up just hours ahead. The quiet start won’t last.
According to the National Weather Service, Kansas City, Overland Park, Independence, and Lee’s Summit will warm from the upper 30s early into the mid-60s by afternoon, with scattered showers developing after 4 p.m. The most active window for rain runs 4 p.m. to 8 p.m., when brief downpours could reduce visibility and slick up roads quickly.
This is part of a broader system bringing unsettled spring weather across the Plains while colder-than-normal air lingers across much of the eastern U.S.
Rainfall totals stay light, but impacts show up fast. Wet pavement on I-70, I-35, and Highway 71 may create slower evening travel, especially in low-lying stretches and urban interchanges where water pools quickly. Visibility could drop during heavier bursts.
Drivers should plan extra time late in the day and keep headlights on in rain. Pedestrians should watch for slick sidewalks and reduced braking distances near intersections.
Temperatures dip back near 39°F tonight, setting up another cool start before a sharp rebound. Sunshine dominates Saturday with highs near 65°F, followed by a jump to near 80°F Sunday as warmer air surges in.
By early next week, Kansas City holds near 80°F with increasing chances for thunderstorms Monday into Tuesday. While severe weather is not guaranteed, the setup supports isolated storms with gusty winds or small hail.
Looking ahead, late next week trends warmer, signaling a stronger push toward consistent spring warmth.
Plan for wet roads after 4 p.m. today and allow extra travel time during the evening commute.
