Missouri — Headlights smear into gray walls of fog as early drivers inch along highways before sunrise.
Dense fog blankets much of the Kansas City metro this morning. Visibility drops to one-quarter mile or less in spots, triggering a Dense Fog Advisory through 10 a.m. Temperatures sit near 48 degrees, with calm winds allowing fog to linger along river valleys and low-lying roads.
Morning travel will be slow. Expect sudden visibility changes on I-70, I-35, and surface streets. Use low-beam headlights and leave extra space between vehicles. Conditions improve gradually late morning as fog thins.
Once fog lifts, Christmas Day stays mild and quiet. Clouds hang around, but highs reach 65 degrees, well above normal for December. Roads dry out, easing travel for afternoon plans.
Tonight brings another fog risk. Patchy fog redevelops late, especially north and east of the Missouri River. Visibility could drop again for overnight drivers, though coverage may be less widespread.
Friday and Saturday deliver the calm stretch many travelers want. Sunshine returns Friday, pushing highs near 66 degrees. Saturday stays mild around 68 degrees, with light winds and dry roads. These are the best travel windows of the holiday period.
By Sunday, weather changes begin. Clouds increase, and a 30 percent chance of showers arrives by afternoon. Rain may slow travel briefly, especially on bridges and ramps. Keep an eye on conditions if returning home Sunday evening.
Colder air surges in behind the system Sunday night. Temperatures plunge into the teens, ending the mild run abruptly. Any lingering moisture could refreeze, creating slick spots before dawn.
Monday feels firmly wintry. Sunshine returns, but highs struggle near 29 degrees, with brisk winds adding a biting edge. Wind chills dip into the teens, reminding travelers winter has arrived.
For now, navigate fog carefully this morning. Enjoy the warmth while it lasts, and prepare for a sharp temperature drop as post-Christmas travel continues into early next week.
