Kansas City, MO – Temperatures are set to spike into record territory within the next 24 hours, with highs nearing the upper 80s by Friday afternoon across western Missouri.
According to the National Weather Service in Kansas City, record high temperatures are likely Friday, with Kansas City expected to reach around 85 degrees, tying or exceeding the longstanding record of 82 degrees set in 1953. St. Joseph could also challenge its record of 82 degrees, while Kirksville is forecast to approach the upper 70s.
The unusual warmth continues into Saturday, when highs could climb even higher. Kansas City may approach 87 degrees, putting it within reach of near-record territory for the day. Cities including Lee’s Summit, Olathe, and Sedalia will also see well above-normal temperatures, running 15 to 25 degrees above typical mid-March values.
Dry conditions will dominate through Saturday, increasing the risk of grass fires, especially along open fields and rural roadways. Residents are urged to avoid outdoor burning and properly dispose of flammable materials.
A cooldown begins Sunday as a cold front moves through, dropping highs back into the 50s and 60s early next week. Until then, summer-like warmth will remain the dominant story across the region.
